Teaching Assistants Positions (2026W)

The Bachelor of Media Studies is accepting applications for teaching assistant positions in Term 1- & 2, 2026 Winter session (September 2026 – April 2027).

2026 – 2027 Academic Year: Term 1 & 2

The course descriptions can be found at https://vancouver.calendar.ubc.ca/course-descriptions/subject/mdiav

Eligibility

Students must be registered full-time during the term(s) they will serve as teaching assistant and be legally entitled to work in Canada. These courses are designated as “in person”; all successful applicants must physically reside in British Columbia for the duration of their appointment as teaching assistant (including during the exam period).

Responsibilities/Duties:

Working with the lead faculty member, the teaching assistants’ duties include:

• Attending lecture(s)/seminar(s)/studio(s) in-person;
• Assisting students in practical exercises in class and tutorials;
• Facilitating lab/tutorial and guiding students through active learning labs and discussions;
• Consultation towards development of individual and collaborative media projects and conducting discussion and feedback sessions;
• Assessing students’ work, including project work;
• Marking assignments & exams; exam invigilation;
• Monitoring & responding to students’ questions on Canvas;
• Holding regular office hours;
• Other duties.

Teaching Assistants will also assist students in learning vocabulary and skills necessary for engaging with a wide variety of media and media theory approaches, expand or facilitate questions in connection to key concepts introduced in lectures and readings.

MDIA 490 Additional Duties

• The teaching assistant works closely with the instructor to support an activity-driven seminar environment, assists with in-class discussions, groups case study sessions, and peer critique workshops;
• The teaching assistant provides timely, substantive written feedback on portfolio and statement drafts;
• The teaching assistant assists in facilitating the portfolios showcase and supporting the mentorship activities that connect BMS cohorts and class group work throughout the term.

Qualifications

• Experience in multidisciplinary approaches and a well-rounded competence in using digital tools for media purposes collaboratively or in using digital media production tools;
• Knowledge of various disciplinary approaches and practices related to media objects and technologies;
• Demonstrated aptitude for leading groups, on the spot problem solving, facilitating experiences, public speaking, assessing needs through relationship-building, and taking initiatives;
• Skilled in using various creative software (e.g, Canva, Figma), handlining digital files in multiple forms and formats, digital imaging and computer problem solving;
• Ability to apply historical and contemporary use and knowledge of software. May also bring knowledge of generative AI platforms, and their effects;
• Advanced course work in media theory and media interests approached through multiple disciplinary lenses (i.e. information design, analytics, games, new media practices, film making, etc.);
• Strong written communicator, comfortable giving constructive feedback on media work and ideas;
• Previous experience in teaching/TA in seminar or studio format and/or leadership is an asset.

Preferred qualifications for MDIA 490

• Demonstrated familiarity with medial theory and cultural criticism;
• Familiarity with online portfolio platforms and social justice and equity frameworks in arts and media contexts
• Ability to facilitate open, thoughtful discussions on sensitive and contested topics;
• An active creative or media practice (i.e., podcasting, curating, journalism, or other forms) is an asset.

All positions are subject to enrolment and funding.

Current salary:

Salary will be in accordance with current negotiated CUPE 2278 rates (as of September 2024):

A full-time TA is 192 hours per term

How to Apply:

New Applicants

Applications must be submitted online (you must log in with your CWL to submit your application). The application should include:

• A cover letter outlining your academic background and relevant experience relative to the particular subject matter of the course(s) – maximum 1 page;
• Current curriculum vitae;
• (If available) sample of teaching evaluations;
• Names and contact information for 2 academic referees.

Returning Applicants

• Current curriculum vitae;

Deadline for applications: Wednesday, May 20th, 2026

All positions are subject to enrolment and funding and are governed by the collective agreement between UBC and CUPE 2278.

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, and/or Indigenous person.