Description of the experience:
Peer Learning Assistants(PLA) is a program that requires volunteers of grade 11 to have one on one sessions with students of grades 9 and 10 regarding the subjects they are struggling or need help with. I had volunteered in this and was allotted a student who needed help with the subject, language, and literature. I had sufficient sessions held to cater to the student’s doubts as they had their mock exams coming up.
Learning outcome 1:
Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth
I have never done any kind of service that involves teaching. This was the first time I was able to put my communication skills to use. I initially struggled with building a connection with the student but eventually, we got along well. In the first few sessions, I was a bit shy as it takes time for me to open up but after working on this weakness I was able to fluently continue the next sessions.
Learning outcome 2:
Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process
This task required me to challenge myself and go out of my comfort zone because I can be a bit hesitant at first. It was difficult to organize the meeting as we couldn’t find a common time so I had to extend my time limit and dedicate my time to the same. I used my self-management skills and gave priority to the student’s learning and my tasks equally. This skill helped me attain a maximum level of organization.
Learning outcome 3:
Demonstrate how to initiate and plan a CAS experience
We were already provided with a few resources but I used my resources as they were convenient for me to explain to the students. I had to plan the sessions prior so that the student is aware and has completed the task provided to her prior. This helped me know what syllabus and doubts have been covered and what is still left. We had our own time difference hence few of the sessions were also held a bit late with the agreement of the student. This aided in covering everything the student required assistance with.
Final take away:
By providing this service to the students, I developed the learner profile of balanced, knowledgeable, and communicator throughout this journey. The SDG focused over here is Quality education as we never had such a program during our time.
