Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL)

PAL leaders are connected to a course section to provide students in those courses with a systematic and structured approach to processing the course material assigned by the instructor. During PAL leader sessions, students work together to gain a deeper understanding of course content. The environment is informal, and students are encouraged to discuss course content and share study strategies. 

Current  PAL sessions.

PAL leaders are recommended by the professor, have done well in the course and have undergone extensive PAL program training to plan effective sessions. PAL leaders attend the class to keep up with the course content and model effective student practices and attitudes. During a PAL session, the leader engages the student using interactive learning strategies, which encourage involvement, comprehension and synthesis of subject content. 

PAL leaders do:

• Facilitate two one-hour review sessions outside of class time.
• Actively participate in class. They can participate in several ways such as: helping answer student questions, demonstrating concepts, providing input during lecture, etc. The PAL leader will consult with faculty to determine the best way to support the class.
  
• Communicate regularly regarding sessions. This can happen via email or by scheduling regular meetings—whatever works best for you!

PAL leaders don't:

• Grade assignments.
• Re-lecture material.
• Introduce new material.