Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences

SEEK peer tutoring


Chris Madeley
Second-year B.Eng/B.Com student

So far in the program I’ve spent most of my time with year 11 and 12 physics classes and a year 8 science class. Although I didn’t think that I wanted to spend much time tutoring younger classes, I found it surprisingly enjoyable - the students seem to be happy to learn new things.

I have also spent some time with the older students discussing uni life and trying to give them an insight on what sort of degrees and options there are available at uni and how the work compares (and differs) to school.

Overall it has been a rewarding experience, because I think I’m learning communication skills myself, as well as tutoring the students.

Thank you for your help in organising the placement.


If you are a SEEK tutor, you can use the online questionnaire to give us feedback about your tutoring experiences.

Read a news article on SEEK: Setting students apart.
Science demonstration by SEEK tutor 

Science Education Enhancing Knowledge (SEEK) tutors are science and engineering students who volunteer to go into schools and help in science classes.

Volunteer peer tutors work with school students in both primary and high school, once or twice a week for about two hours. Peer tutors commit to at least one school term and they are valued assistants in the classroom.

What can tutors do?

SEEK Peer Tutors do not take classes on their own, are not practicum teachers and do not have duty of care.

However, tutors are able to help with almost any school activity, including:

  • Working with small groups of students
  • Helping students with assignments
  • Aiding in practical or laboratory classes
  • One-on-one tutoring for struggling or advanced students
  • Assist with school excursions
  • Work with science clubs
  • Arrange guest speakers or science week events
  • Give special presentations to students
  • Help students prepare for conferences, events or competitions

Information for Students

Any science and engineering students from The University of Western Australia can apply to become SEEK peer tutors, regardless of their course or year level.

Volunteer peer tutoring is a great opportunity to develop your communication skills, gain experience, promote science and help with practical activities in class rooms. It also looks great on your CV and academic transcript.

When you have successfully completed the application process, you will need to attend one, two-hour training session. You will also need to obtain a Working with Children Check, the cost of which will be covered by SEEK.

How to apply

Contact

SEEK Science Peer Tutoring Program is supported by the faculties of Life and Physical Sciences, Natural and Agricultural Sciences and Engineering, Computing and Mathematics.

Miriam Sullivan

(SEEK Co-ordinator)
Physics building, Room 2.58
Telephone (+61 8) 6488 4559

Nancy Longnecker

(Training Co-ordinator)
Faculty of Life and Physical Sciences
Telephone (+61 8) 6488 3926

 

 

This Page
Last updated:
Thursday, 19 November, 2009 4:40 PM

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