The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa recently celebrated its annual Learning Assistant Program award ceremony. Held on April 24, this event recognized the hard work of students, faculty, and staff involved in the program.
This year, the ceremony honored 30 graduating seniors and welcomed 38 new learning assistants and three new faculty members. It showcased four key awards that highlight teaching innovation, program advocacy, and student support.
The Learning Assistant (LA) Program enhances traditional courses by placing undergraduates in classrooms to support active, discussion-based learning. Originally starting in STEM fields, it has now expanded to various disciplines across the university. By collaborating with faculty, learning assistants help transform lectures into engaging experiences.
For the first time, graduating seniors in the LA program received honors cords. These cords symbolize their achievements in academics and their contributions to fostering a supportive learning environment. This change follows the program’s recent transition to the Office of Student Academic Success, having operated as a pilot under the Provost’s office for several years.
According to Tara O’Neill, the LA Program Director and a professor in the College of Education, the cords represent dedication and community within the LA program. They acknowledge students who have helped create engaging learning spaces while pursuing their own studies. O’Neill noted, “This program creates meaningful learning experiences on both sides of the classroom.”
Award Winners
The event recognized outstanding individuals with the following awards:
- Outstanding Learning Assistant Award: Honoring Katie Thai, Jack Santos, and Kevin Phan for their support in fostering engaging learning environments.
- Agent of Change Award: Awarded to Astrid Delorme from the Department of Chemistry for promoting innovative active learning methods.
- Curriculum Innovation Award: Presented to Monique Chyba of the Department of Mathematics for her efforts in course design that enhances student learning experiences.
- LA Advocacy Award: Given to Amy Ebesu Hubbard for her leadership in advancing the program.
These awards reflect a growing trend in education, focusing on peer-assisted learning to enhance student engagement. Research shows that interactive teaching methods can significantly increase retention and understanding. For instance, a recent study found that students involved in active learning courses outperformed peers in traditional lecture settings by 6% in exams.
As educational methods continue to evolve, programs like the LA initiative at UH Mānoa demonstrate the importance of collaboration and community in learning. With ongoing support and recognition, these programs will likely lead to even greater achievements in nurturing engaged and innovative learners.
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