The purpose of the study is to explore various facets of engagement in courses with Learning Assistant (LA) support. LA programmes frequently demonstrate positive effects on student learning and persistence, yet less is known about the nuances of the impact on student engagement. Data collected from students and LAs via online questionnaires are…

A variety of pedagogical practices have been proposed, described, and promoted by scholars in an effort to help enhance the experiences of visually impaired students in integrated physical education. Trained peer tutoring, where a nondisabled student is trained to serve as a peer tutor for a disabled student, is among them. However, little…

This three-manuscript dissertation in practice used improvement science as the methodological approach of disciplined inquiry into a problem of practice--the discrepancy of male and female participation in engineering design-based (EDB) courses and clubs in Starr School District. Manuscript 1 centered around diagnosing the problem and delved into…

This study explored the perceived gains of postsecondary peer educators, specifically related to their views of learning, feelings of connection to campus, and feelings of fulfillment as a result of their roles. The peer educator in the campus learning center is a critical but undervalued resource for student success. This is reflected in the…

Biology and art have been linked throughout history. Early scientists, such as Leonardo de Vinci and John James Audubon, used sketches and painting to document their findings. Even early hominids left evidence of their world through cave art. Histology, the microscopic study of tissues and cells, relies on defining shape and spatial relationships…

Background: Effectively supporting and promoting mental health education for at-risk populations is crucial. In New Zealand, risks in relation to the suicide for young farm labourers, alongside the stress associated with the transition to university and the vulnerability of rural communities, place agricultural students in a vulnerable position.…

Science identity impacts undergraduates' persistence in their science courses and careers. Here, we investigated science identity in learning assistants, undergraduate peer educators who provide academic and social support in science courses. Understanding learning assistants' science identities has particular value because of their dual role as…

While peer tutoring is a valued experiential activity, little is known about the peer tutoring experience and its relationship to desired 21st century outcomes of college. This paper features the results from a multi-institution study of the characteristics and benefits of peer tutoring for tutors. The National Survey of Student Engagement was…

With COVID-19 compelling some countries to close their schools, e-learning has now become the primary mode of learning. Researchers have renewed their interest in users' acceptance of e-learning via different platforms, given the possibility of different results relative to what was known pre-pandemic. However, e-learning still poses issues such…

Purpose: The peer-assisted study sessions program (PASS) -- variously known as supplemental instruction, peer mentoring and peer-assisted learning -- is regarded as a global phenomenon in academic support interventions and has well established presence in higher education. The purpose of this study was to add to the body of knowledge of how PASS…

Studies concerning peer-led team learning (PLTL) have shown cognitive and affective benefits to both students and peer leaders, and PLTL has been shown to be effective in diverse environments. However, some studies suggest that not all students may fully engage in group work. Given this need for leaders in STEM and chemistry specifically to create…

There is a growing consensus that hydrology education should move towards student-led learning formats and simultaneously incorporate recent hydrologic technologies that reflect workforce expectations. Prior theory suggests improvements in learning outcomes from student-led learning; however, little empirical evidence has been collected to confirm…

Many expect upward trends in online college course enrollment to continue. Despite perceived improvements in online pedagogical practice and advantages afforded by virtual platforms, most students and professors still perceive social interaction, engagement, and overall learning to be more challenging online than in person. More than 3 in 10…

This study demonstrates a holistic view into the structure of the Student Athlete Study Room Program, collecting and analyzing data from the student athletes who participated in the program, the peer tutors who facilitated the program, the athletic coaches who engaged with the program support, and the professional staff administrative oversight…

Formative assessment is highly beneficial for student motivation and achievement, but in undergraduate courses, especially large introductory life sciences courses, it may be difficult for instructors to gather the evidence necessary for quality formative assessment. Undergraduate teaching and learning assistants (UTLAs) can help to implement…