SCOPE Program
What is SCOPE?
Student Consultants on Optimizing Pedagogical Excellence
SCOPE is a program at WPI that uses a student partner model to empower professors to approach their teaching practice both reflectively and with student data. The student consultants (Magnifiers) work directly with professors to enhance their teaching methods and classroom experiences within the context of the professor's goals. The Magnifiers are carefully selected and trained WPI students who are interested in the teaching and learning process.
The main objective of SCOPE is to enhance teaching at WPI by leveraging the unique perspective of students. Instead of waiting until the end of the term for student feedback from the course survey, we offer neutral and confidential student Magnifiers to provide real-time and clear student feedback.
This approach aims to be:
• More inclusive
• Less intimidating
• Encouraging constructive growth
If you wish to utilize SCOPE services, you may request a Student Consultant (Magnifier) through the intake form.
SCOPE Services
Observations
This method can take many forms. We may:
• Analyze how the professor divides time between lectures, activities, discussions, and questions.
• Observe specific aspects of the class, such as engagement or the design of lecture slides.
• Take notes as if we are a student in the class and then give them to the professor. This will help you know how students understand the course material shared in class time.
Focus Groups
This method gathers anonymous opinions from students in the class in an open discussion format. Students often feel more comfortable sharing with another student than directly with the professor.
We will:
• Conduct surveys using Qualtrics to gather class data.
• Facilitate discussions to understand their perspectives on teaching effectiveness and classroom dynamics.
Reviews
This method involves performing reviews of various materials and providing detailed feedback to help professors improve their course design and delivery.
We can evaluate:
• Exams
• Syllabi
• Canvas Setup
• Assignments
• Additional Materials
SCOPE Careers
Are you interested in joining our team of Student Consultants (Magnifiers)? We begin the hiring process for federal work study (FWS) students during D term every year. This is so our new Magnifiers are ready to begin as soon as the next school year starts.
If you would like to apply, please fill out this application.