Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL) Program
What is PAL?
PAL is a series of weekly collaborative review sessions led by an experienced Valpo student (PAL Leader). During the spring 2024 semester, PAL is offered in BIO 152, BIO 172, CHEM 122, and PHYS 142. The PAL Leaders meet with instructor(s) and lead structured review sessions every week. The PAL program provides students with a supportive peer-to-peer learning environment where they review complex content they are learning with an experienced leader who understands the course material.
What are the benefits of attending PAL?
- Supports you in maintaining a regular review routine.
- Helps you stay on track with learning new material.
- Keeps you focused on what to learn and how to learn.
- Strengthens your effective study strategies.
- Helps you organize and review course content before exams—supporting your focused study time.
- Engages you in active learning tasks, such as predicting test questions and practicing answering them.
- Tests your knowledge—helps you identify what you know and what you still need to learn.
- A structured peer-to-peer learning environment—compare class notes, discuss important concepts, and practice problem solving.
- A forum for asking questions to check your understanding as you go.
Who are the PAL Leaders?
The PAL Leaders working for the Academic Success Center are current undergraduate students at sophomore, junior, and senior levels. They received recommendations from their professors after successfully completing the course (with a B or higher). PAL Leaders are expected to demonstrate a commitment to cultural diversity and the ability to work with individuals or groups from diverse backgrounds. See ASC Student Employment page for more information.