How PASS operates in AIT

The Peer Assisted Student Support Programme in AIT currently operates according to the following schedule:

Stage 1: Communications

The PASS Programme Communication Campaign includes:

  • Introductory PASS sessions and workshops for staff
  • An AIT PASS Handbook
  • Student briefing sessions about the PASS Programme
  • Email and notice board announcements
  • An online student portal
  • Posters

Stage 2: Recruitment

PASS Leaders are recruited and selected from currently registered second year students. PASS Leaders must complete an application form and a self-assessment form to apply for the role. Successful applications are then short-listed for interviews and final selection.

Stage 3: Training

A comprehensive, three-day training programme for PASS Leaders, Course Contacts, and lecturing staff is provided. (Details of the training schedule for the 2009 PASS Pilot Programme are now available.)

A handbook containing information and advice on running PASS sessions will be distributed to PASS Leaders and Programme Coordinators in advance of the training programme.

Stage 4: PASS Sessions Begin

PASS Sessions are timetabled for participating first year programmes (one hour per week for ten weeks in the semester).

First year students will be given the timetable for their PASS sessions by their respective Schools.

One or two PASS Leaders will run each PASS session. The topics to be discussed can be selected by the students in advance. PASS Leaders will decide techniques and activities they will use to ensure collaborative discussions take place with the guidance of the PASS Coordinator.

PASS sessions are intended to be structured, organised, and purposeful, while also being informal and friendly. During a session the group may:

  • review course material
  • analyse assignment requirements
  • go through past exam papers
  • discuss lectures or project work
  • discuss how to use the library for research
  • practice citing references
  • air other matters of concern, such as financial or accommodation issues

In PASS, the emphasis is on everyone in the group working co-operatively and interdependently to develop their understanding. PASS is about exploratory discussion led by the PASS Leaders. The more everyone in the group joins in these discussions, the better the sessions work.

Stage 5: Programme Evaluations

At the end of each semester, PASS session evaluations and surveys will take place, with the aim of improving the performance of the PASS Programme in future academic years.

Stage 6: Leader Rewards

PASS Leaders are rewarded for their role in delivering PASS sessions.