MathPALs

MathPALs hold informal, fun study groups for first-year Mathematics students, particularly for the course Introduction to Linear Algebra. You can also become a MathPALs leader.

Participation

By participating in MathPALS you can meet other students in your year group as well as higher-year students who have been where you are now. MathPALS is an informal, friendly environment where you can ask questions about the courses.

Eligibility

Any student who is taking a first-year maths course.

Times and Location

MathPALS sessions for 2020/21 will be held fully online this year (details to be confirmed) There will be several session times to choose from so you should find one that suits your timetable. Session times are published in Week 2 of the semester and the sessions will begin in Week 3.

Signing-up

If you are eligible, you should see MathPALS under My Courses in Learn at the start of the semester. Click through and follow the link to choose your group. If you think you are eligible but cannot see MathPALS in Learn, please email:

mathpals@maths.ed.ac.uk

Leader Recruitment

MathPALS recruits new student leaders in April for the following academic year.

MathPALS role description [password protected]

Reasons to become a MathPALS leader

Meet and help lower-year students.
Receive full training in key skills such as facilitation and group management.
Boost your CV.
Personal development opportunities.
Opportunity to work towards the Edinburgh Award.
Improve your confidence, communication, and leadership skills.

Information about the Edinburgh Award

Eligibility

Be in Years 2-5 of a Mathematics degree programme.
Commit two and a half hours a week during the semester. This will consist of a 50-minute PALs session, preparation, and team meetings.
Be friendly and supportive.
Be willing to act as a facilitator to support learning (not as a teacher or tutor).

How to apply

There are two options to apply. Either:

1. Attend the information session and complete the online application form (before or after attending); or

2. If unable to attend the information session, complete the online application form and you will be invited for a follow-up interview (your preference of phone or in-person).

Application form

The deadline for 2020/21 is Monday 11th May 2020 at midnight.

MathPALS committee

Leaders (usually continuing, but new leaders will also sometimes be considered) can apply for a position on the MathPALS committee. This offers an opportunity to contribute to MathPALS at a more strategic level. The links below are password protected and on SharePoint.

Chairperson role description [password protected]

Records officer role description [password protected]

Academic practices officer role description [password protected]

Publicity and communication officer role description [password protected]