What are TDFs?

Teaching Development Fellows work within an interdisciplinary network of peers dedicated to teaching and learning. They receive training and mentorship in teaching from TLL and design and lead independent, department-based workshops and events (in-person or remote) aimed at improving grad student teaching skills.

Fellows should plan to commit approximately 8-10 hours per month from August to May to achieve the work associated with this program. Their work is supported by each fellow’s department with a total stipend of $2,100. There are also a number of at-large positions available, supported directly by TLL.

What do TDFs do?

We encourage TDFs to pursue events and activities that interest them and that they believe will be valuable to their graduate-student peers in their departments. A key value of the program is promoting graduate student leadership. But some examples of recent successful TDF activities are listed below to give you a better sense of what you might do as a TDF

Who can be a TDF?

Applicants must be graduate students in good academic standing with at least one semester of teaching or TA experience. Priority will be given to applicants who demonstrate a commitment to developing a community of evidence-based and reflective teaching in their departments, have additional teaching experience, and/or have already completed the Kaufman Teaching Certificate Program (KTCP), Grad Teaching Development Tracks, or equivalent training.*

Selected applicants who have not previously completed KTCP or a similar program will receive additional training during summer 2026 before beginning the program.

*Examples of equivalent training are achieving an undergraduate or graduate degree in education, or completing the CIRTL MOOC, NSF GK12 program, or MIT Scheller Teacher Education Program.

How do I apply?

The online application includes the following:

• Contact and department information
• Previous participation in teaching development programming
• Short answer questions on the following topics:
  • Challenges to developing teaching skills for graduate students in your department and proposals for how to address these challenges
  • Description of teaching philosophy and teaching methods currently in use or planned
  • Description and explanation of how you would approach a short TA check-in in your department.
  • Explanation of teaching philosophy and experience
  • Description of prior leadership experience
  • If interested in an at-large position, a short description of what kind of project you would like to be involved in.
• Applicants must also upload a current C.V., including teaching experience

A strong application should include:

• A specific description of the challenges to developing teaching skills within your department and a specific plan to address these challenges. 
• An evidence-based understanding of what makes for effective teaching
• At least one semester of TAing or similar teaching experience

Upon completion of the application, your advisor or graduate officer (identified in the application) will be contacted to confirm good academic standing and acknowledge your prospective participation. A letter of reference is not required.

Fellows are selected by a committee of TLL staff and former fellows in consultation with their departments. All materials must be received no later than May 3, 2026.