Peer Assisted Learning (PAL)
Student to student support scheme
Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) is a form of student-to-student support, usually taking place through weekly study sessions or workshops.
PAL is delivered by higher-level students (PAL Leaders), who have been through the same programme as you and will be able to give you insights and tips to help you succeed. They also work with your lecturers to create useful questions and resources for your PAL session.
Learning with other students on your course, gives you opportunities to share ideas, increase your knowledge, develop confidence, and make friends.
If your course is listed, PAL should be on your timetable:
PAL leaders run study sessions for new students to build their understanding and confidence in the subject and develop their learning strategies.
As a PAL Leader you will:
It is important to note that PAL Leaders are not expected to teach or take the role of a subject expert.
Benefits of the role, include:
Recruitment of new PAL Leaders usually takes place during the Summer term. You may receive communication from your course leader or College office asking for applications.
Qualities and skills required:
Before you apply, consider how you will manage your time to ensure you can commit to this role throughout the academic year.
Before beginning your role, you will need to complete asynchronous training via a Blackboard course and attend synchronous training, either through webinars or face-to-face on campus.
During the role, you will work with another PAL Leader to plan and deliver sessions. You will also be invited to group debrief meetings where you will have the opportunity to share your experiences and discuss challenges and session ideas with other PAL Leaders.
PAL Leaders have ongoing support from the Learning Development Centre and specific Academic staff from the programme they are supporting.
Contact the LDC team