Title: Enhancing Student Learning Through Active Learning Techniques at the University of Georgia
The University of Georgia has seen significant growth in its program thanks to the implementation of active learning techniques in the classroom. The Peer Learning Assistant initiative, launched in 2018, has played a crucial role in improving student comprehension and success in courses through classroom discussion and active learning techniques.
Peer Learning Assistants (PLAs) are students who have completed a course successfully and now work alongside their professors to support current students. The program has expanded its course offerings, with 236 PLAs employed through the Office for Student Success and Achievement, serving 81 individual course sections.
PLAs help students improve academic performance and gain a deeper understanding of the course material. They create a supportive and engaging environment in the classroom, fostering better student connections with the material and each other. The program has been praised by both students and professors for its positive impact on the educational experience at UGA.
Annie Gustavsen, a third-year nutritional science major, has been working as a PLA for professor Aaron DeLeo for the past three semesters. She has seen firsthand the benefits of active learning techniques in the classroom and the positive impact it has on student engagement and performance.
Madison Butler, a fourth-year public health major, also highlights the importance of PLAs in creating a more approachable learning environment. By using active learning techniques such as collaborating with peers and asking questions, PLAs help students better understand complex concepts and engage in meaningful discussions.
Instructors must apply and be selected for the Active Learning Peer Learning Assistant Faculty Mentor Program to have PLAs in the classroom. The program aims to promote engagement, participation, and learning, ultimately benefiting the overall classroom environment and student learning outcomes.
Overall, the Peer Learning Assistant program at the University of Georgia has proven to be a valuable resource for students and professors alike. By incorporating active learning techniques and fostering a student-centered approach, the program has enhanced the educational experience and strengthened connections within the academic community. Students are encouraged to take advantage of this valuable resource and engage in active learning to further enhance their understanding of course material.
