FAQs

Q. What is Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS)?

A. PASS are peer-led review sessions provided for selected course. PASS provides a chance for students to come together with classmates to compare notes, discuss study concepts, review for tests, and to develop better study strategies.

The sessions are conducted by PASS Leaders. PASS Leaders are students who have already taken the selected course and earned a high grade. In their sessions, they share their study strategies and help session participants learn how to study more effectively. The PASS leader does not re-lecture or give out his/her class notes, but reinforces material covered in class and helps the participants become independent learners.

Research that has been done on the benefits of study groups says students who study together learn tow and a half times as much in the same amount of time as students who study alone. Collaborative learning promotes critical thinking through discussion, clarification of ideas, and evaluation of others' ideas. The PASS program encourages students to work with their classmates and to break the cycle of dependency that they may bring with them from secondary school. PASS does not identify high-risk students, but rather identifies historically difficult classes.

Q. Who can use the SSC's Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS)?

A. Peer Assisted Study Sessions are available for any student enrolled a class that offers this service.

Q. Where will the SSC's Peer Assisted Study Sessions take place?

A. The SSC's Peer Assisted Study Sessions take place in a scheduled classroom.

Q. What's expected of me at a Peer Assisted Study Session (PASS)?

A. In order to adequately prepare for Peer Assisted Study Sessions, attend class regularly and keep up with your textbook readings. Your PASS Leader does not teach the material but rather reviews it with you. He or she can help you understand concepts, talk through ideas, and ask probing questions. Your success depends entirely upon you. The more actively you pursue your studies, the more you'll get out of each session. Make sure you bring your books, assignments, and notes to each session.

Q. Will PASS Leaders be available for individual work?

A. Peer Assisted Study Sessions are based on group collaboration. Your PASS leader is available during the weekly scheduled study sessions. If you need assistance beyond PASS, there are also individual tutoring services in the SSC and within various departments that are available.

Q. Will I have to attend PASS on a regular basis?

A. It is best to attend sessions on a regular basis, but it is not required.

Q. What are the qualifications of my PASS Leader?

A. PASS Leaders are students with high GPAs and who have been successful in the class in which they are assisting. They must complete a rigorous application and training process.

Q. What can I expect from my PASS Leader?

A. PASS Leaders will be on time and prepared to discuss and reinforce class material. They will facilitate discussion and review as well as help you work on test preparation and study skills.