Victoria College, in partnership with the Faculty of Arts & Science, is expanding its peer-led Undergraduate Tutoring program to support core first-year Computer Science and second-year Statistical Sciences courses. Building on an existing tutoring model used in large first-year Chemistry, Physics, and Math courses, Undergraduate Tutors offer a drop-in, peer-based academic support that complements (but is distinct from) lectures and tutorials. Tutors act as “coaches” as students work through practice problems and take-away assignments, helping students develop confidence and problem-solving skills. The program is designed to operate in close collaboration with departments and course instructors, including instructor involvement in hiring, tutor onboarding, and access to relevant course materials. The pilot will begin at a manageable scale (two designated tutors, one for Computer Science and one for Statistics), with the intent to strengthen student learning and progression in high-demand courses and to build stronger evidence base for future expansion.
Outcomes
This initiative is intended to increase students’ use of peer academic support in some Computer Science and Statistics courses and strengthen students’ confidence in skills-intensive learning. The program aims to improve course performance for participating students and contribute to reduced DFW (Drop/Fail/Withdraw) rates in the pilot courses. The project will also generate evidence to inform whether expanded peer tutoring in these subjects supports retention and progression.