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The beneficial effects of Learning Assistants (LAs) on student experience and achievement is an ongoing and well-documented investment in the transformative power of learning, the benefits extend significantly to the LAs themselves. Through their work, LAs deepen their understanding of core disciplinary concepts, which can enhance their performance in all courses. They also develop crucial listening skills and relay valuable feedback from students to their instructional teams, advocating for targeted instructional support. Learning Assistants collaborate with instructional teams and learning communities. Participation in SCI 5050: The Science of Learning provides LAs with opportunities to connect with peers, access on-campus resources, and build professional relationships. Through this course, LAs gain insights into the psychology and science of teaching and learning. This knowledge equips them with best practices to participate in, and lead, productive, collaborative problem-solving discussions.
Faculty members who are interested in having LAs in their classroom should reach out to their department coordinators or email la-program@utah.edu
The Learning Assistant program at the University of Utah started in 2017 and is based on the program model developed by University of Colorado Boulder. Additional information about the origins and impacts of the Learning Assistant model is available on the University of Colorado Boulder’s website.
You can also find more information and available trainings at the Learning Assistant Alliance website.