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Collaborative Study Groups Click here to download a PDF version of this program flyer. Collaborative Study Groups are built on a concept of classroom teamwork where learning communities are formed between teachers, students and volunteers. Teachers and volunteers engage students in the learning process and provide positive reinforcement to promote academic success. It has been shown that learning to study in collaborative groups is an important key to academic success. In fact, collaboration is a stronger predicator of success than SAT scores, previous grades, income level, family support, or cultural background.* Austin Partners in Education (APIE) is working to link Austin ISD schools with community businesses, government agencies, and civic groups to create a collaborative learning culture. In a Collaborative Study Group classroom, teachers present a lesson to volunteer-led student groups. The volunteer works with the students to support the content of each lesson. Each team has 4 to 5 students. Teachers support the study groups in the classroom, coaching groups on process and content. Volunteers work with the same group of students each week and build mentoring relationships. The Volunteer brings relevance to the classroom. The community volunteers help facilitate group work, bring real-world experience to the lesson, and help students explore career options. The Teacher provides rigor and continuity to the learning. Teachers and department heads determine the lesson plans and help guide volunteers. The Student gains academic capacity and exposure to real-world experiences. Students help each other with academic concepts, learn to solve problems as a team, and gain the support of community volunteers who bring life experience to the classroom. *Research by Dr. Uri Treisman, Director of The University of Texas Austin, Charles A. Dana Center. Volunteer Commitment: 45 minutes to 1 hour each week for a semester or the school year. Volunteer on your own or consider adopting a class with your co-workers. On days when there are work schedule conflicts, students join other groups. Both English-only and bilingual speakers are needed. Grade Range: Elementary School (Partners in Reading) Middle School (Partners in Math) High School (Partners in Math, College Readiness, Partners in Literature) Program Contact: Audrey Glaser Director, Programs and Systems aglaser@austinpartners.org 512-637-0974

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