In2science Peer Mentoring Program
Why should schools
be involved in Peer Mentoring?
The In2science Peer Mentoring program provides benefits for both students and teachers in school communities.
In2science is currently only available for government schools in Victoria.
Benefits for secondary Science and Mathematics students:
- Opportunity to meet positive role models in Science and Mathematics.
- A new dimension and interest to study.
- Additional support with work and more individual attention.
- Improved oral communication skills by talking tasks through.
- Improved academic performance though additional support and understanding.
- Stimulation to go on to further education.
Further details on benefits for students
Read some quotes from students.
Benefits for Teachers:
- Free classroom assistance and support.
- More freedom to manage the learning environment.
- Lessons which are more enjoyable and easier to manage.
- Improved opportunity for oral work and efficient learning.
- Benefits for excursions.
- An opportunity to learn about university students and courses.
- The opportunity to discuss the latest issues in Science.
- The opportunity to make links with the University Science Faculties.
Further details on benefits for teachers
Read some quotes from teachers.
Want to know more?
Quotes from secondary school students:
"The Mentor was really keen on helping us understand and think more about things we did
in class. They often helped us explore things we could not solve."
Year 7 student
"It was great to have someone new in the classroom helping us."
Year 7 student
"The Mentor helped me with my work especially when I could not understand a question
or if the teacher was busy with another student."
Year 10 student
Quotes from participating 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