Learning Assistants are vital to teaching and learning in Collaborative Learning Spaces
Instructors in large Collaborative Learning Spaces rely on Learning Assistants (LAs) to support classroom learning activities. For optimal effectiveness, we recommend a minimum of one Learning Assistant per 20-25 students in class, though this ratio may vary by course.
Quick Start Program for Learning Assistants
The University of Arizona's Learning Assistant Quick Start Program is a 4-5 hour online mini-course for graduate teaching assistants, undergraduate learning assistants, and preceptors. This no-cost, asynchronous, online program supplements departmental training and provides essential preparation for Learning Assistants across all disciplines.
While many resources exist for active learning strategies, guidance on effectively utilizing Learning Assistants remains limited and often focuses narrowly on STEM fields. This program addresses that gap by providing foundational training applicable to any academic field.
Program Details
- Format: Online, asynchronous via Brightspace
- Duration: 4-5 hours over 5 days
- Cost: Free, non-credit
- Schedule: Opens during the first few weeks of each semester
- Completion: Certificate provided
Upcoming Sessions
- Fall 2025: Opens Monday, August 18, 2025
- Spring 2026: Opens Wednesday, January 7, 2026
Topics Covered
- Day 1: Learning Assistant Overview and Humanizing Learning
- Day 2: Active Learning (part 1)
- Day 3: Learning Assistant Roles and Responsibilities
- Day 4: Small Changes, Big Impacts
- Day 5: Active Learning (part 2)
Enrollment
Contact Dr. Kate Bunton with student names and email addresses, or if you have questions.
Quick Start Program Impact
More than 80% of Learning Assistants recommend that instructors enroll their learning assistants in the Quick Start Program. One participant shared:
"This course gave me a greater appreciation and understanding of what it means to be an educator. As a student, I really only wanted my professor to give me the answer so I can study the material on my own. However, now I know that much more time and dedication is allocated towards truly teaching students so that they can understand the material. I am now more motivated to help students learn the information and assist those who are having more difficulty."
How to Teach with Learning Assistants
Professional Development Resources
The University of Arizona's Lunar and Planetary Lab offers a Preceptor Professional Development Workshop through their Teaching Teams Program. This workshop helps students develop essential skills in critical thinking, public speaking, leadership, and group dynamics.
Implementation Guidance
The University of Colorado's Learning Assistant Program, which expanded from Physics to multiple departments, provides practical resources including:
Tips and strategies for working with Learning Assistants
Instructor notes for initial TA/LA meetings
Additional Resources
The Science Education Resource Center (SERC) at Carleton University offers comprehensive guidance on:
Teaching with Learning Assistants