Montgomery College, a two-year college, gives undergraduate students the opportunity to ‘try on teaching’ in classrooms and laboratories through it’s STEM Learning Assistant (LA) program.  The journey of a Learning Assistant was documented as the LA was immersed in two different chemistry classes over the course of a year.  The LA presented lessons and problems in class, worked alongside the professor assisting students in both lecture and discussion, and held study and review sessions outside of class.  The LA was supported throughout this experience through one-on-one faculty mentor/LA weekly meetings and by attending pedagogical training events with cohort LAs.  The LA encouraged the students to articulate and defend their ideas in the classroom and at study sessions, which led to a deeper understanding of the course material as well as increased peer connections.  The students benefited from having a Learning Assistant embedded in their class as they saw the LA as a 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, both the LA and the students benefitted, with the LA gaining a deeper knowledge of chemistry plus a unique teaching experience, and the students benefitting from working with a peer who was supportive and helped to foster a positive attitude toward learning chemistry, leading to student success and increased interest in STEM teaching for everyone involved.

Exploring STEM teaching: Being a learning assistant at a two-year college

2019 Spring National Meeting

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