The purpose of this study was to assess the needs of research assistants at Middle East Technical University in relation to instructional planning, effective teaching and evaluation, and their awareness level related to self-improvement in an academic context. Data sources were the research assistants who were enrolled on tire program in the Fall term of 2001-2002 academic year, the instructor and her assistant. During the study, qualitative data were gathered and a content analysis technique was adopted to analyze data. Results revealed that prospective instructors have a subject-oriented approach in planning, teaching and evaluation, and they view self-improvement as the improvement of knowledge in the subject. Although program goals seem to be in line with needs, certain practices should be implemented to achieve better outcomes.

Keywords: Faculty development programs, needs analysis