National Science Foundation LogoU.S. NSF Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program

What is a Learning Assistant?

What are Learning Assistants?

Biology Learning Assistant

Learning Assistants are undergraduate students who, after completing a course, and through the guidance of weekly preparation sessions and a pedagogy course, return to the classroom and facilitate discussions among groups of students in a variety of classroom settings that encourage active engagement.

The essential components of the Learning Assistant Programs are often visually described as follows.

 

 

Temporary picture of Education 201.
Temporary picture of the Education 201.

The PEDAGOGY TRAINING

Wittenberg's "Pedagogy for Learning Assistants" class is EDUC 200 - "Pedagogy for Learning Assistants".  This course is offered every spring and should be taken the semester before or during their first semester serving as a learning assistant. Secondary education minors seeking teacher licensure may take this course in place of EDUC 105. Dr. Justin Housknecht uses a learner-centered, constructivist paradigm to improve your understanding and practice of evidence-based instructional and assessment practices.  Once completed, you'll be ready to help Wittenberg Faculty teach their courses.

Riley being an LA

The EXPERIENCE

After registering for Educ 200, you will be assigned to work with a Wittenberg faculty member in a STEM course utilizing LA's (that you have already completed successfully.   Currently, those could be Chem 121, Data 227, Math 201, Math 202, Biol 170, Biol 180, and Esci 101, which are STEM classes many students struggle with. You will attend each class and work with the students to master the material, and also to model good behavior.  This is truly a way to "Have Light and Pay It Forward."

The MENTORSHIP 

Each week you'll meet with your faculty instructor.  During these meetings you'll prepare upcoming class activities, give feedback on your view of the class, ask questions on content, and work collaboratively to create a safe and engaged classroom.   This is a great time to create even closer relationships with your professors - something that Wittenberg values strongly.

 

Meet our Learning Assistants

Hear what being an LA meant to them.

Major: Math

LA for: Math 201 and 202

"Being a learning assistant was wonderful.  It helped me be a better teacher."

Riley
Adam E. Parker
Class of '99

Major: Math

LA for: Data 227

"The best part of being a Learning assistant was that I got to work with Dr. Parker and Dr. Hoofnagle, though Hoof was better."

McKenna Clark
Class of 2026
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