Testimonials from past teachers
"The In2science Program is a fantastic program and I know the class really enjoyed having our Peer Mentor involved in the Genetics and Chemistry units. On the occasions when they were unable to attend due to university commitments, the students were asking where she was and when she was coming back. These comments indicate how much the students valued the Peer Mentors input and involvement in the class.
The Peer Mentor quickly developed good rapport with the students, it was obvious the students felt comfortable with her to the extent that they would confidently ask her questions and seek her assistance when required. She displayed a professional approach whilst maintaining the role of a peer mentor. She was able to assist students with a range of things such as class work, practical work and other issues like university.
Our Mentor was reliable and very helpful, and willingly offered to assist with practical work including instructing students on how to use equipment, explaining various concepts and monitoring students. This provided an excellent opportunity for the students to receive input from another person other than myself, and it was really interesting to see the differences in approach. The Mentor showed initiative, she would contribute to the class and get involved without any prompting. Her involvement assisted me and helped me to make more use of practical and group work, and trying different things with the class. The Peer Mentor was a valuable asset to the class and I believe her involvement enriched the educational experience of the students.
I would recommend any school to become involved in the In2science Program, it is an excellent opportunity for students, I recommend it highly and would encourage Science Coordinators to make it a priority for their department to become involved."
Science Teacher
"The Mentor was an asset in the classroom, assisting students, sharing her experiences and where science has taken her."
Science Teacher
"Extra pair of hands, positive role model. It was an opportunity to take risks and with the additional human resources to try new activities, beyond my existing repertoire, knowing that I have some assistance and support."
Science Teacher
"Provides additional support in the classroom - especially during practical activities or during the introduction of new ideas. Allows students to work with adults other than teachers who bring a different perspective to the classroom and can (sometimes) relate to students in a way they respond to."
Science Teacher
"Extra assistance in the classroom, which frees up the classroom teacher to offer more help to those who need it more than others. Also students getting a chance to develop their communication skills and expanding on it by interacting with someone who is not their every day teacher."
Science Teacher