In what context can teaching assistants facilitate hands-on activities?

The most appropriate context for teaching assistants to facilitate hands-on activities is within STEM education initiatives. STEM—which encompasses science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—emphasizes experiential learning, where students engage in hands-on experiences to grasp complex concepts better. Teaching assistants play a crucial role in these initiatives by helping to organize and manage activities that enhance students' understanding of STEM subjects through direct participation and experimentation.

While teaching assistants do support various educational activities across different subjects, STEM education particularly relies on hands-on learning as a fundamental part of its pedagogy. This approach not only deepens comprehension but also fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential in STEM fields.