3 Strategies for Course Leads as Supporters of Peer Educators

The Course Lead role is a critical one, in that they guide, support, communicate with, and mentor their peer educators. Additionally, the role places responsibilities for course design, course management, and course iteration based on best practices that ensure exceptional student outcomes. Here we provide insight to the ways that Course Leads can successfully manage these responsibilities.

1. Prepare for the Term Start

Course Leads should be prepared to support all peer educators as they begin and/or continue teaching online. A kickoff meeting scheduled with all peer educators at least two to three weeks prior to the start of any term is a great way to provide time to build community, set expectations, and clarify the understanding of the following:

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  Course learning objectives
• Educator and student expectations
• Course materials 
• Grading policies 
• Common difficulties/advantages for educators and students in the course
• Technology access and knowledge
• Resources and onboarding opportunities with 2U training staff

2. Maintain Communication

Maintaining ongoing support through regular communication with all peer educators is a key to their collegial relationship. These regular communications, whether they be digital or in person, provide opportunities to listen, share, and expedite the following information:

• Curriculum updates/clarifications
• Strategies for student engagement
• Upcoming due dates 
• Approaches to grading
• Program/university information
• Current events in the field
• Educator and student concerns/achievements

3. Consider Feedback

Regular assessment of peer educator successes and struggles will always guide informed practices and provide the team a sense of incorporation and empowerment. Course Leads should encourage their peer educators to complete and make ongoing practice of the following:

• Communication with students either via announcement tools, email, or office hours
• Dissemination of important information with students at appropriate times
• Assessment of students in a timely manner with appropriate feedback
• Review of live class recordings to determine what is working and what may need improvement

Starting with these strategies will greatly improve the experiences of your peer educators, and in turn, their students. The 2U Faculty Engagement & Development team is always here to discuss these suggestions or your particular challenges in a consulting session.

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