The Community and Structure of Sacramento State’s Peer Assisted Learning Program

Navid Akhavan, Julianna Davison, Emma Taylor, Jaeanna Hill, Victoria Mosley, & Kevin Josh Salimo 

California State University, Sacramento

Abstract

The Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) Program at California State University, Sacramento serves its diverse student body to increase academic success in STEM courses. Our program encourages students to learn collectively alongside their peers and carve out their own understanding of coursework. As previous and current Facilitators in the PAL program, we provide insight into our program’s unique structure, extensive training, and the great sense of community developed by the several PAL program facets and unique aspects described. The PAL program nurtures a sense of belonging and growth among Facilitators and students alike by fostering an environment that serves as a ‘Third Space,’ a supportive community beyond the traditional academic environment. 

Keywords: Peer Assisted Learning (PAL), Facilitators, STEM Education, Training and Development, Third Space and Community 

Recommended Citation

Akhavan, N., Davison, J., Taylor, E., Hill, J., Mosley, V., & Salimo, K. J. (2024). The community and structure of      Sacramento State’s Peer Assisted Learning Program. Advances in Peer-Led Learning, 4, 19-27. Online at https://doi.org/10.54935/apll2024-01-03-19