Wisdom’s PAM Programme

Types:
A) Peer-assisted learning (informal, unpaid and could be in-class)
B) Peer Academic Mentoring (by appointment, under supervision, paid incentive)
What Is Peer Learning?

Peer learning is an education method that helps students solidify their knowledge by
teaching each other. One student tutoring another in a supervised environment can
result in better learning and retention. Why? Because to teach another, one must first
fully understand a concept themselves. Verbalizing a concept and sharing the
information with a peer serves to reinforce the knowledge gained. 
Peer learning is best supported by other learning strategies, including
the Constructivism Learning Theory and the Connectivism Learning Theory. 

The Wisdom recruits both peer tutors and mentors every semester.  Both positions are
on-campus, paid opportunities for students who enjoy helping their peers be
academically successful.  The first step in the application process is to attend an
interview.

Process for Wisdom PAM programme:

- NEED ASSESS: Mentees and Mentors apply
- RECRUITMENT: sign an agreed commitment
- SCREENING: attend an interview
- TRAINING: attend mentor training sessions
- SUPERVISING: set up a committee of supervisors for the programme
- LINK: mentors use the Wisdom Subject Reflection Booklets to set goals
- CHECK: mentors use end of unit reviews and exams to assess progress
- CONNECT: a mentor must check in with the supervisor and submit reports
- CHECK: a mentee must complete a reflection form after each class
What is Peer Mentoring?
A Simple Definition
 The term “peers” conventionally denotes to be two or more people who consider
themselves to be equals, or peers, in supporting each other’s development.

Learning is often interpreted as enhanced knowledge, skills, abilities and perceptions. In

peer learning, one peers supports the other to learn, for example, by sharing advice,
feedback and thoughtful questions.

Peer Mentoring & Academic Guidance

In this form, a person (a mentor) who has proven strong knowledge and expertise in a
certain topic or activity shares these attributes to help another (a mentee) to advance in
his or her career. Peer mentoring is often considered to be a form of peer learning,
although the mentor is often perceived by the mentee as not being a peer.

Peer Academic Mentors (PAMs) 

Role Boundaries
A peer mentor doesn’t completely replace a teacher, however the results
can be more effective in certain types of learner.

Peer mentors are monitored, observed and audited by

teachers.

Academic Peer Mentoring

Academic Peer Mentoring matches students with a peer mentor who will help them
improve their academic success skills. These are skills that can be applied across a
wide range of courses and throughout your educational career.

Topics for mentoring sessions might include

 Time management
 Discipline/organization
 Notetaking
 Study techniques,
 Preparing for exams,
 And more!
 Your Academic Peer Mentor

Your peer mentor is a student like you! They have demonstrated strong academic skills
and resilience in their academic journey. Some may also have served as tutors in other
areas. Your peer mentor will help you explore and develop your academic skills as well
as help you set and reflect on weekly goals.

**Note: your mentor is a fellow student who is not trained in:

 Traditional teaching methodology

 Academic Advising
 Stress management
 Sleep management
 Mental health counseling
 Learning differences such as ADHD, dyslexia, etc.

Peer Mentoring Time Commitment

 Mentees commit to working with their peer mentor every week for an agreed amount of time.
 At your first meeting, you will find a time that works best for you and your mentor’s schedule.
 You can request to meet with your mentor in person or via zoom.

Expectations for Students Who Use Peer Mentoring

 You will work towards the academic goals you set with your peer mentor each week
 While the peer mentor can help you explore strategies for motivation and discipline, it is your
responsibility to apply those strategies to your studies
 You will come to mentoring sessions prepared to self-reflect on your academic strategies and
open to trying new ones.

Apply for an Academic Peer Mentor

Interested in applying for a Academic Peer Mentor? Watch the orientation video below
and then fill out our application!

Peer Mentoring Time Commitment

Mentees commit to working with their peer mentor every week for ____ hour. At your
first meeting, you will find a time that works best for you and your mentor’s schedule.

Location of Meetings
In-person meetings will occur in the Wisdom School Building under supervision.

Questions about Academic Peer Mentoring?

Email the Academic Success Center or call 919.515.3163.