What is Peer Assisted Learning Support (PALS)?
The PALS programme aims to provide student-centred peer support that promotes learning, engagement, wellbeing, and student success by:
- Connecting students and lecturers: Acting as a link between lecturers and distance-learning students.
- Building an engaged learning community: Encouraging participation, interaction, and discussion around module content.
- Providing personalized peer support: Sharing practical study tips, learning strategies and experiences guided by peers who already completed the module successfully.
- Supporting student wellbeing: Creating a supportive space that promotes connection, belonging and positive coping strategies.
- Providing academic support: Assisting peers with academic skills and understanding of module content, with appropriate referrals when needed.
- Supporting digital learning: Helping students navigate online learning platforms, digital tools and common technological challenges.
What is a PAL?
A PAL is a senior student who has already passed the specific module and supports distance undergraduate students enrolled in that module.
They are involved in the following activities:
- Creating a supportive environment
- Enhancing the connection between students and lecturers
- Cultivating a virtual community of learning
- Creating a sense of belonging to overcome feelings of isolation
- Providing academic and social support
- Developing online learning skills
- Assisting with technological difficulties
PALS are appointed in selected distance modules in the following faculties:
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Humanities
- Faculty of Natural Agricultural Sciences
- Faculty of Theology
PALS Coordinator
Dr Petria Theron
018 285 2036
petria.theron@nwu.ac.za
Building E8, Office 107A
PALS Administrators
Faculty of Education
Ms Patricia Semelo
018 285 2817
patricia.semelo@nwu.ac.za
Building E8, Office 105A
Faculty of Humanities & Natural Agricultural Sciences
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Mr Paul Modise
078 613 0927
Building A3 Block D, Office G64