Description
The Peer Supported Learning Leader was identified by a professor as a skillful and resourceful student. They organized learning sessions outside of regularly scheduled classes to support the learning of junior peers who were grappling with difficult content in challenging courses, and to assist undergraduate students in their transition to post-secondary education.
Position Overview
Candidates for this paid position are skillful and resourceful students. They organize learning sessions outside of regularly scheduled classes, supporting the learning of junior peers who are grappling with difficult content in challenging courses. They also assist undergraduate students transitioning to post-secondary education.
Peer Supported Learning (PSL) Leaders may be identified by a professor as a potential candidate for this position.
PSL Leaders facilitate critical thinking and discussion among PSL participants using learning strategy activities. These sessions integrate content and learning strategies. In addition, PSL Leaders work collaboratively with other PSL Leaders in problem-solving, mastery of learning strategies/study skills, facilitation techniques, and critical thinking skills that can be conveyed in learning sessions.
PSL Learning courses are first or second year courses in the following subject areas: accounting, biology, chemistry, physical education, and psychology.
As a PSL Leader, you will attend the applicable class again to take notes and identify difficult concepts, then plan study/learning sessions based on these concepts. You will facilitate two group study sessions (50 minutes each) per week for any student wanting to attend. You are expected to maintain confidentiality regarding which students attend the sessions, as all sessions are anonymous for attendees. You will also meet with the Program Coordinator once a week to debrief the sessions, and you will provide a weekly overview of difficult concepts covered in the learning sessions.
Position Requirements
- Minimum time commitments is 75 hours per semesters
- PSL leaders should be approachable, friendly, and model good student behaviour/habits
- Must have previously taken the applicable course and have received a high grade, minimum B+
- Must be self-directed and have good written and verbal communication skills
- Must attend all training sessions/PSL Leader meetings
Graduate Attributes Associated
Students in this position will gain skills in active learning, collaboration, critical thinking, foundations for lifelong learning, oral and written communication, and safe and ethical practices.
Position Type
- This is a Work-Op position
- Number of positions: multiple
Sign Up Directions
For more information, please contact Shelley-Anne Gajda, Coordinator, Peer Supported Learning, Centre for Experiential Learning at Shelley-Anne.Gajda@viu.ca. To apply for this position, please submit a resume and a cover letter mentioning the course and course section you wish to support.