What is Peer-Assisted Learning?

Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL) is an academic support program following the Supplemental Instruction (SI) model, created at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.  PAL is a non-remedial approach to learning that supports students' academic success by integrating “what to learn” with “how to learn.” PAL consists of regularly scheduled, out-of-class group study sessions driven by students’ needs. Sessions are facilitated by trained peer leaders who utilize collaborative activities to ensure peer-to-peer interaction in small groups. PAL is implemented in high-risk courses and is supported and evaluated by the SI Specialist and staff at Memorial’s Academic Success Centre.

What will I be required to do?

Peer-Assisted Learning is not intended to create any additional work for instructors. You can support PAL by granting time for occasional in-class announcements and by encouraging students to take advantage of the PAL program.

Additionally, we will be in contact with you about the following aspects of the program:

• Assisting in selecting and approving candidates for peer leaders for your course by providing recommendations for undergraduate students who have recently been successful in your course.
• Maintaining a working relationship with the peer leader assigned to your course throughout the semester through brief meetings (when requested by the instructor or leader) during office hours or another agreed-upon time.
• Assisting in providing information to the Supplemental Instruction Specialist at the Academic Success Centre for PAL program evaluation.

What should I expect from the PAL program?

The Peer-Assisted Learning program will be supported by the SI Specialist and staff at the Academic Success Centre, who will:

• Seek instructor input on the selection of students to be hired as peer leaders for their course.
• Train all peer leaders according to guidelines and best practices established by the International and Canadian Centres for Supplemental Instruction.
• Monitor the activities and presentations of peer leaders for as long as necessary by reviewing their materials, providing guidance on session planning, and supervising their performance.
• Provide supplies, pre-term and in-service training experiences, and consultations when necessary for peer leaders.
• Provide instructors with an end-of-term comparative analysis of student performance.
• Ask for feedback on the instructor’s experience with the PAL program.

What should I expect from the Peer Leader?

The peer leader assigned to your course will:

• Attend all classes
• Maintain a professional attitude about matters such as class standards, grades, and student feedback
• Discourage students from attending PAL as a substitute for class
• Share PAL materials with the instructor before use, if possible or requested
• Provide feedback to the instructor if requested to do so

The PAL leader will not:

• Re-lecture your material
• Answer emails or inquiries addressed to, or that should be directed to, instructors
• Grade assignments and exams
• Teach the class in the instructor’s absence

How does PAL help students?

PAL provides an opportunity for students to learn and practice course concepts while creating connections with peers in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Students who participate in PAL regularly are more likely to score higher term grades.

PAL helps students develop effective study strategies while learning course content through:

• Collaborating with peers to learn content through engaging and interactive activities
• Comparing and reviewing study notes
• Preparing for tests and exams

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What we've heard from PAL students 

• 93% of students surveyed rated PAL sessions as “helpful” to “extremely helpful”.
• 92% of students surveyed would recommend PAL to a friend.

^{“The [activities] made the learning experience interactive and fun. It made learning feel less like a chore and more like an enjoyable, shared experience with my peers.” Winter 2024}

^{“I felt very comfortable asking questions and I felt there was a very respectful learning environment. The PAL leader was so kind and easy to talk to, I always felt welcomed and I left every session having learned something new about the course.” Fall 2023}

Instructors interested in PAL are encouraged to contact us for more information about participating in the program.