Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Mutsa Madondo
- B.Science student
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Being a SEEK peer tutor was an enriching learning experience. The first lesson I learnt was how to conquer stage fright. Initially, I found the idea of standing in front of a group of curious young people daunting but with the support and “mentorship” of the class teachers, it became second nature.
Another invaluable lesson learnt was the ability to communicate science in a basic way and being able to adapt my explanation to suit the listener’s level of understanding.
The last and most important skill I acquired was patience — being patient with the students when they failed to understand a concept… and being patient with myself when I did not know the answer to their questions.
All in all, the SEEK peer tutor experience was a fun and interactive way of gaining a hoard of invaluable skills.
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 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:
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Working with small groups of students
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Helping students with assignments
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Aiding in practical or laboratory classes
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One-on-one tutoring for struggling or advanced students
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Assist with school excursions
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Work with science clubs
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Arrange guest speakers or science week events
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Give special presentations to students
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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
- Complete and submit an online application to become a tutor or to have a tutor visit your school
- download the following document, which includes applications for both students and teachers, and then email your completed form to SEEK.
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.
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(SEEK Co-ordinator) |
(Training Co-ordinator) |
