Fostering Inclusive Learning Environments: The Impact of Peer Mentors in STEM Education
Nicole Klee, Gabriel Munoz Zarazua, Joselyn Espinoza Lopez
Department of Physics & Astronomy
Faculty Supervisor: Jingyi Wang
At San Francisco State University, our peer mentors, Learning Assistants (LA), and Discussion Leaders (DL) help promote a more inclusive classroom environment and a better sense of belonging in their STEM courses. Our mentors apply inclusive teaching techniques that they learn from the weekly pedagogy classes they attend. Our research helps explore the experiences of peer mentors and students through reflective essays, interviews, and student surveys. In our Computer Science (CS) classes, our discussion leaders (DLs) meet with students in small groups for one hour per week outside of regular class time. In this relaxed, instructor-free environment, students receive help with course content without feeling pressured when asking questions. The benefits that our mentors have reported from this program include gaining teaching experience, increased confidence, becoming better students, and a supportive pedagogy environment. Our students have gained a higher sense of belonging and improved knowledge from interacting with our peer mentors. The dedication and support of peer mentors are invaluable in fostering a collaborative and enriching academic experience for students.