The Learning Assistant Program

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The Learning Assistant (LA) Program, housed under the umbrella of Teaching and Learning in the Center for Faculty Development, pairs undergraduate students as Learning Assistants, with faculty. An LA facilitates course activities, leads study sessions, and supports each faculty member in implementing innovative teaching techniques. 

For Students 

Benefits of Being a Learning Assistant

Receive an hourly wage for your work  Gain teaching experience, leadership, and mentoring skills  Deepen your understanding of course content   Build stronger relationships with faculty

Learning Assistants must have completed the course in which they will serve as an LA with a grade of B or higher and be interested in teaching, mentoring, and further developing their knowledge of the education and the discipline. The expected time commitment is 8 hours per week for a minimum of one semester. LAs appointments may span multiple semesters. 
We welcome applications from students of all backgrounds and majors who are enthusiastic about learning and promoting student success.  

Interested in becoming an LA? Talk to your faculty member or email laprogramFREEMississippi.  

For Faculty 

Incorporating Learning Assistants will enhance your instruction through more opportunities for active learning and student engagement. LAs bring energy, diversity, and peer mentorship to the classroom. They also function as a key feedback loop for faculty. Contact us at laprogram@usm.edu to learn more about integrating an LA into your classroom. 

Benefits for Faculty

Incorporate more active learning, group work, and peer mentoring with the help of LAs  Receive pedagogical training for developing courses that incorporate LAs  Obtain feedback through LAs on student experiences and perspectives in your course  Develop mentoring relationships with LAs  Contribute to the professional development of LAs  Participate in the LA Faculty community of practice

The LA Program provides pedagogical training for working with Learning Assistants for faculty invested in implementing active learning strategies. Bring dynamic teaching and enhance your students' success by incorporating an LA onto your instructional team!