In the second semester of the third year of my Health Sciences degree, I had the pleasure of working at the Student Learning Center as a PASS leader for the Foundations in Clinical Biochemistry course. I also attended PASS sessions in my first year of university which were a great way to gain extra practice with the course material and prepare for assessments. Below is an explanation of what to expect during a PASS session. 

Supplemental Instruction

PASS sessions are not meant to replace lectures and tutorials. Students are expected to attend all lectures and tutorials and come to PASS for extra review and clarification of concepts. PASS leaders pick out the most important and difficult concepts from class and incorporate those ideas into the PASS sessions. 

Study Environment for Everyone

PASS sessions are a place for all students taking a specific course to gain extra practice and assistance with course material. Although students are encouraged to practice the material outside of PASS sessions, you do not need to make your own notes on the lectures and study independently before coming to PASS. Even if you missed a few lectures you could still come to PASS for extra help.

Interactive and Collaborative

PASS leaders facilitate activities such as informal quizzes and group discussions to get students involved during PASS sessions. Students are encouraged to participate in all activities and ask questions if needed. Students are also encouraged to collaborate by working together on activities and helping answer each other’s questions. 

Flexibility

PASS leaders can adapt sessions that better meet the needs of students. If students want to spend more time on an activity or skip one that is not beneficial for them, PASS leaders can modify the session accordingly. 

Group Study Sessions

There may be a large number of students in a PASS session, especially close to midterms and final exams. Students seeking more individualized support may benefit from Peer Tutoring or contacting their Professor or TA for assistance.

I benefitted from going to PASS sessions in my first year of university, and I encourage you to attend a PASS session and see if it is helpful for you. 

Best of luck with your studying!