Teaching Assistant for PS 143: Japanese Politics with Professor T.J. Pempel, Spring 2009
Course Description: Late to emerge from its feudal cocoon, Japan was the first non Western country to industrialize and to establish the formal institutions of political democracy. By the 1930s it had developed into a predominant power in the Pacific. For more than forty years following its defeat in World War II, Japan maintained a mixture of democratic political procedures, long term one party rule, dependence on the U.S. for military security, and an effective balance between high economic growth and relative social equality, as well as low expenditures for military hardware and a strong sense of national security. Since the early 1990s, however, many of the mainstays of the previous system have collapsed; the party and electoral system have changed; the economy has been stagnant; the military has become more independent; and social problems have become more extensive. The course explores this combination of political experiences as well as the social costs and benefits attendant upon its successes.
Overall student rating of my effectiveness: 4.7/5.0
Selected comments submitted by my students:
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“One of the best discussion sections I have had. Extremely well organized and useful. We effectively went over key concepts and readings which added to the understanding of lecture.”
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“Very friendly! She makes the material fun to learn which helps especially with the amount of material to cover. The discussion section worksheets become very helpful when studying for midterms/finals…Great GSI overall! I wish I had her as a GSI for my other classes.”
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“Articulate, very knowledgeable about the subject, responsive to student concerns, always came to class organized and actively encourage student participation…Kristi is a wonderful GSI.”
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“Kristi understands very well what makes a discussion section useful to students: neither too much time spent with her lecturing us, nor too much on independent work.”
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“One of the best GSIs I’ve ever had.”
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“Very interactive, it really seems more like a discussion than a lecture which is always good. Covers and elaborates what we cover in class…Willing to take time to answer questions, clear confusion. Good at getting students involved.”
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“Always went above and beyond to create handouts. Created engaging discussion sections with very helpful and fun activities. One of the best [GSIs] I have ever had.”
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“Kristi is a great GSI! Very helpful.”
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“She had excellent worksheets prepared for every meeting.”
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“Awesome. Very knowledgeable and enthusiastic.”
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“Very effective. One of the best GSI’s I’ve ever had here at Cal.”
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“Very clear and concise in explaining main points of lecture, directs sections to effectively use time in focusing on main points.”
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“Overall, quite effective and helpful. She is clear to understand and knowledgeable.”
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“I love her worksheets.”
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“Very concise, well-prepared, and knowledgeable about the course. Overall, a very accessible and approachable GSI.”
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“No improvements necessary. She is a great GSI.”
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