Peer writing and learning support for undergraduates
Peer writer programme
Studying at undergraduate level and need some help with your assignment? You can get help from a senior student on
- Unpacking the assignment question
- Planning/structuring your assignment
- Grammar and punctuation
- Sentence and paragraph structure
The peer writer will operate at the following times for semester 2 (not including mid-semester break):
- Mondays at 11am in GW2C
- Tuesdays at 12pm in GW2B
- Wednesdays at 11am in GW2C
- Thursdays at 2pm in GW2B
You do not need to book an appointment, you can just show up. Student Learning Development is located beside the Central Library and the ID card office in the Information Services Building.
If you have any questions, please contact us:
Email hedc.studentlearning@otago.ac.nz
Peer assisted study sessions (PASS)
If you're studying a 100 level paper, attending Peer-Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) is a great way to succeed at University. The more sessions you attend, the greater the benefits!
Peer Assisted Study Sessions are fun group-based study sessions led by an experienced student who has successfully completed the course.
More information about the PASS programme
English language peer support
English conversation group
Volunteers at Student Learning Development facilitate weekly informal English speaking sessions during the first and second semesters. They're a great opportunity to ask language and culture-related questions in a safe environment, as well as providing a chance to meet others trying to improve their English. These sessions are open to all who wish to attend. No need to register. As these are informal classes, feel free to join in at any stage.
If there's enough demand, Kiwi movie nights and shared dinners may also be offered. Participants are encouraged to bring a pen and notebook to the sessions to take notes.
English conversation groups are held during semesters 1 and 2 at the following times:
- Mondays 4pm at Student Learning Development Seminar room GW2b
- Wednesdays 5pm at Student Learning Development Seminar Room GW2b
- Fridays 2pm at Student Learning Development Seminar Room GW2b
Apply to facilitate an English conversation group
Otago English language mentors
The Otago English language mentor programme brings together staff and students from the University of Otago and the wider community to share and improve their language skills through a conversational language programme.
Your language mentor will be a student volunteer who will meet with you on a regular basis to help you practise your English.
Register for a language mentor
Applications close in the third week of each semester.
For further information regarding the English conversation group or the English language mentor programme, please contact:
Jordan Paranihi
Email englishlanguage.peersupport@otago.ac.nz