A learning assistant is a student with experience in a subject who helps current students navigate the course. The learning assistant organises and leads academic activities, such as study groups, for the subject in question and provides students with basic academic guidance.
Learning assistants are a valuable resource for students because they have recently completed the course themselves and thus have fresh knowledge of the material. The role of a learning assistant benefits both the assistant and the individual students and provides valuable experience for future careers. The goal of using learning assistants is to support students' progress in their courses and to enhance social cohesion in academic work.
Brief information on student assistants
We distinguish between learning assistants and student assistants. While learning assistants have already completed the course and lead academic activities for new cohorts of students, student assistants are currently enrolled in the course alongside their peers. Student assistants are employed to handle tasks related to teaching situations where practical support is needed. This may include technical assistance with digital Tools, setting up for various concerts, acting as sound assistants, assisting with knowledge on various musical instruments, preparing and cleaning teaching rooms, etc.
Student assistants are employed in the courses they are currently taking and are an important resource in the teaching environment. They also have the opportunity to apply their skills and share their knowledge with other students.
What benefits do you receive by being a learning assistant?
Learning assistants are expected to provide academic guidance to students and help them establish and maintain an academic study environment. This support can contribute to students' academic progress and foster a stronger sense of academic and social belonging. Learning assistants are not intended to replace regular teaching but rather to supplement it.
Examples of work tasks:
- Organising and monitoring study groups
- Working with assignments, articles, or other relevant literature
- Arranging workshops and seminars
Benefits
- The opportunity to reflect on subjects with other students
- Sharing knowledge and experience, utilising your academic expertise and personal experiences to guide and support fellow students
- Insight into professional ethical issues
- Awareness of your own academic progress
- Refreshing your knowledge on the subjects
- Experience in mentoring
- Academically relevant part-time job
Current resources from other educational institutions
Several excellent resources provide inspiration and tips for training and organising learning assistants. Here is a selection of resources we are aware of regarding methods and practices. These can be helpful for those looking to develop as learning assistants, those organising programmes for learning assistants, and those interested in collaborative teaching.
Learning Assistants Alliance - A large international network of institutions working on the development of learning assistants