What is Peer Assisted Learning (PAL)?

Peer Assisted Learning(PAL) combines the role of an embedded tutor with the skills of a peer mentor and academic coach in one wraparound peer support service. PAL facilitators will be integrated into specific first-year courses to provide individual and small-group support to students during class time, then will hold PAL hours in the Tutoring and Reading Center for students in their course sections to ask questions about content, study strategies, being a student, navigating the transition to college and more. 

How is Peer Assisted Learning Different?

Peer Assisted Learning is very similar to Embedded Tutoring during class time, but this model trains peer facilitators to be more than just a content tutor outside of class. PAL facilitators will receive comprehensive academic coaching and peer mentoring training, empowering them to provide wraparound academic and social support to students from a trusted peer. PAL facilitators will be trained to assist with study skills and strategies, campus partner referrals, social support, and more. 

Although PAL falls under the Supplemental Instruction (SI) umbrella, it is different from Structured Learning Assistance, or SLA. PAL will work best in an active or flipped classroom and focuses on supporting students during regular class time, and there is no additional study session required of students like SLA. Instead, PAL facilitators will have PAL hours where students can drop-in or make an appointment to work with a facilitator individually or in small groups.

Why Peer Support?

Peer academic and social support is beneficial for students because it is more readily available, perceived power hierarchies are diminished, and the advice is more relatable. Studies have shown that students who receive peer support have:

• Increased self-efficacy and critical thinking
• Increased academic motivation
• Improved mental health
  • Including decreased anxiety
• Higher GPA and retention
• Better goal mastery and accountability