Graduation Rates: Peer Leaders vs. University (2017-2019)
Peer-Led Team Learning (PLTL) at FIU
🌟 Welcome to the Future of Learning! 🎓 Welcome to the official site of Peer-Led Team Learning at Florida International University. Join us in revolutionizing the academic experience by participating in a program proven to improve student success.
📖 What is Peer-Led Team Learning? 🤔
A Brief History 🕰️
PLTL was born in the mid-1990s as a collaborative project between St. Xavier University, Rochester University, and the City College of New York. The aim? To elevate the academic performances and passing rates of general chemistry students. At FIU, the program was launched in 2000, initially in the Department of Biological Sciences, inspired by a model promoted at a regional conference by the University of Miami.
The Model 🧪
At the heart of PLTL is the concept of peer facilitation. A Peer Leader (PL)—someone who has successfully navigated the course—leads students through weekly workshops. These workshops are intricately designed to complement the course material, encouraging students to think critically and apply their learning to various scenarios.
The Approach 🎯
Peer Leaders guide the discussion but don’t spoon-feed answers. In this unique, workshop-based learning environment, the answers come from you—the student. This collaborative approach not only enhances academic performance but also builds essential skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and self-directed learning.
📈 Why PLTL? The Impact 🌟
- Increased Passing Rates: Since implementing PLTL, we’ve seen a significant increase in course passing rates.
- Enhanced Skill Set: Students report improved problem-solving abilities and a better grasp of course material.
- Peer Leader Growth: PLs themselves benefit, gaining invaluable leadership and facilitation skills.
History of the PLTL Program at FIU
The Peer-Led Team Learning (PLTL) program at Florida International University (FIU) began in 2000 within the Department of Biological Sciences, initiated by Thomas Pitzer. Inspired by the model during a regional conference hosted by the University of Miami, the program was part of a national initiative supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF).
Unlike traditional instructional methods, PLTL fosters an interactive and collaborative learning environment, with Peer Leaders—trained undergraduates—facilitating sessions. The program is self-sustaining, relying on departmental support and voluntary efforts. Currently, it supports over 1,500 students and approximately 150 Peer Leaders each semester.
Over its 24-year history, the PLTL program has significantly contributed to educational research, publishing numerous papers demonstrating its efficacy. Recent initiatives include micro-credentials for Leaders, starting Spring 2024.
Program Structure and Implementation
The PLTL program at FIU is meticulously organized to promote effective learning and leadership development, with a structured hierarchy and operational workflow.
Hierarchical Structure
- Students: Attend weekly sessions to reinforce classroom concepts through collaborative problem-solving.
- Peer Leaders: Guide students through pre-designed worksheets, prepared by staff and professors.
- Supervisors: Experienced leaders who oversee sessions and provide feedback.
- Group Discussion (GD) Leaders: Prepare Peer Leaders for sessions with pedagogical strategies and content walkthroughs.
- GD Chairs: Ensure effective group discussions and address any issues.
- Program Assistants: Oversee the entire PLTL structure, handling program development and liaising with university faculty and administration.
Operational Workflow
Weekly sessions involve students working through worksheets under the guidance of Peer Leaders. Supervisors monitor these sessions, ensuring quality and efficacy. The program covers a range of biology courses and plans to expand into other departments.
Adaptation to Online Learning
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the PLTL program transitioned to online sessions, currently comprising 55% of the total. The program aims to increase in-person sessions to enhance interaction quality.
Impact and Success Stories
Quantitative Analysis
From Fall 2020 to Summer 2024, the PLTL program has grown significantly, with 824 leaders and an average leader tenure of 1.94 years. Leaders have contributed approximately 79,000 hours collectively.
Qualitative Analysis
- Jennifer Santana: Improved time management and foundational knowledge.
- Finley Dallas: Gained confidence and leadership skills.
- Carlos Rodriguez: Learned the importance of discussion, patience, and kindness.
Challenges and Resolutions
Navigating Departmental Support and Staffing Challenges
The program faced staffing reductions during the pandemic but has started to recover with the help of Graduate Teaching Assistants.
Transitioning from Paper to Digital
The program transitioned to digital record-keeping in 2023, enhancing operational efficiency.
Enhancing Communication
The program uses WhatsApp alongside emails to improve communication and community building.
Looking Ahead: Strategic Goals and Initiatives
Expansion Plans
- Internal: Extend the PLTL model to additional departments at FIU.
- External: Establish collaborations with other universities.
Program Evaluation and Development
Develop a plan for continuous evaluation and strategic growth, ensuring high standards and relevance.
Ready to be part of this academic revolution? Here’s how:
- Students: Sign up for a PLTL workshop and experience the difference in learning.
- Prospective Peer Leaders: If you’ve aced the course and are interested in giving back, consider becoming a Peer Leader.
- Educators & Institutions: Interested in incorporating PLTL into your teaching methodology? We’d love to partner with you.