For over twenty years at CU Boulder and ten years at CU Denver, the Learning Assistant (LA) model has played a role in classroom learning by allowing students to act as peer mentors and instructional leaders. With support from a CU Next system award, this program is now expanding across the University of Colorado system, including UCCS.
The LA model combines faculty development with student leadership to transform courses using research-based teaching methods. It offers students opportunities to deepen their understanding, gain confidence, and help their peers. This approach creates a collaborative environment that supports student achievement in various fields and on different campuses.
“By pairing faculty development with student leadership, the LA model transforms courses through research-based teaching practices. It also creates meaningful opportunities for students to deepen their knowledge, build confidence and support their peers. The result is a collaborative learning environment that advances student success across disciplines and campuses.”
A video is available showing how the Learning Assistant model is changing at CU and its ongoing influence on teaching and learning.
