Locations in
Wilson Library
Walter Library
Magrath Library
(612) 624-1071
smartlc@umn.edu
http://smart.umn.edu
Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL) Facilitator
Job Description – Psychology
The SMART Learning Commons is seeking a psychology major to serve as a Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL)
facilitator for PSY 1001 during the fall 2012 semester.
Qualifications: PAL facilitators must maintain a minimum 3.2 overall grade point average. The applicant
is required to have completed PSY 1001 at the U of MN with an “A-” or better. Excellent
communication and interpersonal skills are also essential for this position. Completion of higher level
psychology courses with “B+s” or better is preferred. Previous experience and a strong desire to help
others learn is a plus.
Duties:
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Facilitate one weekly study session where students work in small groups on activities
prepared by the facilitator that address the topics and concepts discussed in each week’s
lectures. The PAL group meets for 50 minutes.
Attend at least one lecture each week, read the text, and work through assignments. The
lecture meets MWF 1:25-2:15.
Coordinate PAL session activities with the course instructor when appropriate.
Attend a two-day training workshop (a paid activity) the week before fall classes begin.
Dates: Wed Aug 29 and Thu Aug 30, 2012.
Participate in a one credit, professional development course -OUE 3050: Introduction to
Peer Cooperative Learning, which meets weekly for 50 minutes (Mon 4:40-5:30) during the
fall semester. This aspect of training is unpaid but is required for new facilitators.
Attend a one hour weekly meeting with other PAL facilitators and the PAL team leader to
coordinate PAL session activities and for on-going training.
Meet occasionally with the PAL Supervisor individually to discuss session observations and
plans.
Provide handouts for PAL sessions as necessary and submit an electronic copy for the PAL
Resource Library.
Hours: Weekly commitment will average 5 hours per week: 1 hour per week attending lecture, 2 hours
for weekly preparation (one of the hours can be used to attend a second lecture or to meet with the
instructor), 1 hour for a weekly team meeting, and 1 hour facilitating the PAL session.
Credit opportunity: This experience can qualify as a one credit directed study and/or a pre-teaching
experience for the College of Education.
Pay: $11.00/ hr. Pre-semester training will be paid at same rate.
Questions may be directed to mlilly@umn.edu.
3/22/16