Course-Based Support for Peer-Led Study Group Facilitators in a Large Instructional Team

Abstract

An institutionalized program of peer-led study groups (PLSG) adds instructional power to our large-enrollment introductory organic chemistry courses. Concomitantly, there is a challenge to keep the instructional philosophy and subject matter coherent with the faculty expectations and goals across this diverse group of undergraduate instructors. Thus, to improve communication within the instructional workforce of our large organic chemistry course, we have installed a required course for all undergraduate PLSG facilitators and peer tutors hired by the Science Learning Center at the University of Michigan. This liaison course, taught by a graduate student instructor under the direction of the faculty course coordinator, focuses on enhancing subject matter clarity and stemming the flow of misinformation that has sometimes been reported in the PLSG sessions. We examined the perceived value of the liaison course, self-assessment of course content knowledge by the facilitators, and how enrollment in the course has shaped the experience of those leading a PLSG.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Rachel A. Barnard

At the time this article was written Rachel A. Barnard was a teaching postdoc in the Chemistry Department (now a lecturer at Michigan State University), University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Jordan R. Boothe

Jordan R. Boothe is a postdoctoral research fellow in the Chemistry Department, University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Joe Salvatore

Joe Salvatore is the director of the Science Learning Center, University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Kelley Emerson

Kelley Emerson is the study group program manager in the Science Learning Center, University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Allison Boone

Allison Boone was a tutor manager in the Chemistry Department, University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Claire Sandler

Claire Sandler was the director of the Science Learning Center (now retired), University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Brian P. Coppola

Brian P. Coppola ([email protected]) is the Arthur F Thurnau Professor of Chemistry and associate chair for Educational Development Practice, University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.