Peer Tutoring and Peer Assisted Learning are offered through the Marian University Academic Commons. All services are included in tuition for all undergraduate students, including our Online and ABSN programs.
The Academic Commons also hosts events to help build community among learners, including success seminars and open work sessions. Our mission is to provide you with space and place to access individualized resources to support your academic success.
We can help you:
- Maintain a strong grade.
- Understand complex concepts.
- Navigate coursework.
- Learn how to study.
- Access personalized support.
Peer Assisted Learning (PAL)
What is PAL?
PAL sessions are regularly scheduled time outside of class, facilitated by a trained peer leader who provides a fun and collaborative learning environment. During a PAL session, learners actively work with classmates to assess their learning, deepen their understanding of course content, and develop study strategies to be successful in the course and beyond.
Who are PAL Leaders?
- Peers who earned a B+ or higher in the course, recommended by faculty.
- Meet routinely with course faculty to determine how to best support learners.
- Host sessions in the Academic Commons.
- Engage in ongoing professional development.
When and Where are PAL sessions?
Check out the schedule HERE. Take the lead in your learning and attend a session!
Why you should attend PAL sessions:
PAL is most effective for learners who attend regularly throughout the semester. Research shows learners who attend at least three sessions in a semester have higher grades than peers who attend fewer than three.
Learn more about our PAL models:
Supplemental Instruction (SI)
SI uses an active learning approach by integrating "what to learn" with "how to learn." This approach supports learners as they develop a deeper understanding of content and its connection to critical course concepts. SI leaders attend lectures alongside learners, taking note of questions asked during lecture to guide session planning.
Active Learning
Active Learning sessions look and feel the same as an SI session. Active Learning Leaders still meet regularly with course faculty to determine how to best support learners, but leaders do not attend lectures.
Group Tutoring
During Group Tutoring sessions, learners meet with a trained peer leader who models study strategies to support learners as they work toward independence. As they take the lead in their learning, learners will problem solve, review materials, and ask questions to clarify course concepts.
Peer Tutoring
The Marian University Academic Commons is proud to hold a Level 1 tutor training program certification through the internationally recognized College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA). This means our tutor training curriculum has been peer-reviewed and meets the highest standards in developing our tutors' understanding of ethics, learning theory, and tutoring techniques.
Learners can book an appointment with one of our trained Peer Tutors and get one-on-one individualized support for:
- 100+ Specific Courses
- Writing for any subject area
- Public Speaking presentations
WCOnline - Schedule an Appointment Here!
- Schedule appointments through WCOnline
- Face-to-face or Online
- 30-minute or 60-minute
- Must be made at least 12 hours in advance
- Same-day Walk-In Hours are also available!