SLAs do not teach students but are fully trained to work with students using effective questioning and active listening methods . They work collaboratively with academic staff, supporting students in small groups and one-to-one, in the classroom and in pre-arranged locations in the university. They facilitate learning by:
Student Learning Assistants are there to complement what has been taught in lectures and do not take the place of the lecturer or tutor. They are there to help you have a better understanding of the course and empower you to find your own learning styles so that you can take of ownership of your learning.
Students can work in small groups to solve problems and find solutions together with an experienced student facilitating the group and giving advice and guidance. Working with SLAs enables students to ask questions about course work freely without being embarrassed and gradually helps build up students' confidence levels.
Students who used Student Learning Assistants last year made the following comments:
"It was an opportunity to have access to those who have access to those who have completed the module to help with hands-on skills"
"Working with an SLA enabled me to learn faster and study new topics in advance"
"Using experienced student perspective helped."
"I was given the opportunity to ask questions freely."
SLAs can help you to achieve success with the help of fellow students!
Student Learning Assistants are experienced students who have been identified by their academic tutors as being highly motivated and capable learners who "have been there before" and know the typical academic issues new students face in their studies. They work in lectures, seminars, workshops and small group sessions to assist students in their learning.
Learn more about your SLAs by clicking here!
SLAs are active in the following schools:
