New Program Teaches College Skills – Fast! 

A new program has been created by College of the Canyons to improve the speed at which students, whose assessment test results reveal below college-level skills, can complete courses to improve those skills and more rapidly put them on the path to succeeding in college and transfer-level courses.

The Personalized Accelerated Learning (PAL) program’s format is based on a 8-week model in which students participate in intensive classes in either an English or Math track as well as a class that focuses on goal setting, learning styles, time management, and accessing resources that will help them be successful.   The program will be offered on both the Valencia and Canyon Country campuses.

“We have offered classes like these to help students succeed for several years in our winter and summer sessions,” said Diane Fiero, the Vice President of the college responsible for the program, “but research shows that students who attend our spring and fall semesters would like to be able to complete these classes at a faster pace than the traditional 16 weeks.  This way they can progress through two, eight-week Math or English classes in one semester instead of two. Eight weeks,” stressed Fiero, “is the minimum length of time our faculty members think is reasonable to complete courses of this nature and allow for complete understanding and retention of the material.”

The format of the PAL program includes a couple of very attractive pedagogical advantages.  First, as a student successfully completes one 8-week class, he or she can move immediately on to the next level in the next 8 weeks.  Secondly, the college has arranged for the same instructor to teach the same group of students as they make their way through the progression of classes.  That way, instructors are more familiar with individual student needs and students can benefit from the consistency of instruction that a single instructor provides.  Finally, students will progress together – in a group known as a cohort – through the classes.  This way they get to know their classmates and they can help and support each other when needed.

Information sessions are being planned for prospective PAL students who would like to know more about this program.  In addition, students who enroll in the PAL classes will receive a specialized group orientation, dedicated counseling and tutoring opportunities.

Follow These Easy Steps to Become a PAL Student!