About
Learning Assistants (LAs) are undergraduate students who collaborate with faculty to support active, inclusive, and student-centered learning.
The LA program is based on the model developed at the University of Colorado - Boulder. The RIT LA program is a part of the Learning Assistant Alliance, an international organization that connects the more than 500 LA programs across the world.
At RIT, LAs help transform traditional lectures into interactive learning environments, directly enhancing student engagement and success.
Supporting Student Learning
- Facilitate group discussions and lead in-class active learning activities.
- Encourage peer collaboration and ensure all students are engaged.
- Offer review sessions and support outside of class to reinforce understanding.
- Create a welcoming, inclusive classroom where students feel comfortable asking questions.
Collaborating with Faculty Mentors
- Work with faculty to design and implement active learning strategies.
- Assist in creating and refining course materials such as worksheets, study guides, and problem sets.
- Provide feedback on classroom engagement and share student perspectives.
- Support the use of group work, peer instruction, and problem-solving activities in class.
Become a Learning Assistant
LAs are pedagogically trained undergraduate students who collaborate with faculty to create active, student-centered classrooms. As part of their role, LAs take a credit-bearing pedagogy course.
Become a Faculty Mentor
The LA program focuses on providing professional growth to Learning Assistants through a mentor-mentee model, where faculty mentors guide LAs in developing their teaching skills, engaging students, and enhancing the overall learning experience.
