Introduction

In keeping with its commitment to excellence in undergraduate education, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has established a minimum level of English language proficiency for all international graduate students with instructional assignments. International graduate students for whom English is not their native language and who expect to receive instructional assignments must successfully complete the Institute for International Teaching Assistants.

The Institute, established in the summer of 1988, is a multi-purpose program designed to prepare international graduate students from various university departments to teach American undergraduates. This goal includes developing an understanding of the teaching role in American university classrooms, providing intensive training in English pronunciation and intonation, practicing classroom communication skills and instructional strategies, and assisting students during their first semester teaching with follow-up observations.

The Institute requires a genuine commitment to participate and to be successful. Students are expected to be on time and attend all sessions. Students whose attendance, participation, or performance during the Institute is below standard may be dropped from the program.

SPEAK Test
Institute Completion and Follow-Up
Frequently Asked Questions