Montgomery College, a two-year college, provides students with an opportunity to try on teaching through its STEM Learning Assistant (LA) program. The journey of a Learning Assistant was documented as the LA was immersed in the laboratory and discussion components of a chemistry course, encouraging collaborative learning and engagement for the students in the class. The LA presented lessons and problems in class, worked alongside the professor assisting students, and held study and review sessions outside of class. The LA was supported throughout this experience by weekly one-on-one LA/faculty mentor meetings and by attending pedagogical training events with cohort LAs throughout the semester. The LA encouraged students to articulate and defend their ideas, which led to a deeper understanding of the course material as well as increased student confidence. The students benefited from having a Learning Assistant embedded in their class as they saw the LA as a useful resource and successful peer-model and felt comfortable approaching the LA for assistance. Having completed the course recently, the LA also provided helpful study tips and strategies to the students. Throughout the experience, the LA gained a deeper knowledge of chemistry plus a unique teaching experience, and the students gained a peer who was supportive and helped them to foster a positive attitude toward learning chemistry - all leading to student success and increased interest in STEM teaching for everyone involved.

Guiding learning in the STEM classroom: Being a learning assistant at a two-year college

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.