The MITAA

The UW-Milwaukee International Teaching Assistant Assessment (MITAA) is conducted by a panel of evaluators composed of one representative from the department or school of the ITA and two ESL instructors. The assessment is videotaped and lasts about 20 minutes. The panel deliberates immediately after the assessment, and the candidate is immediately informed of his/her MITAA score.

The assessment itself consists of three components: A short introductory conversation with the panel on topics such as previous academic preparation or familiarity with the U.S. university environment; a presentation of approximately 10 minutes on a self-selected topic related to the field of study and suitable for first or second year undergraduate students; and a question and answer period of about 5 minutes.

The MITAA assesses candidates on a scale from 1 (low) to 4 (high) on the criteria listed below:

Overall language ability   (12 points)
   • pronunciation
   • grammar
   • fluency
   • intonation

Cultural awareness   (12 points)
   • familiarity with cultural code
   • appropriate non-verbal behavior
   • rapport with audience

Communication skills   (12 points)
   • development of explanation
   • clarity of expression
   • use of supporting evidence
   • cohesiveness
   • eye contact
   • use of visual aids
   • enthusiasm/presence

Interaction with panel   (12 points)
   • listening ability
   • responding to questions
   • clarifying information

The candidate is rated on a scale of 48 total possible points.

Schedule

The MITAA is given four times throughout the year, before the start and at the end of each semester: August, December, January and May. Advance registration is required. For exact times of the assessment, contact the ESL office. There is no charge for the MITAA.