SLED Level 1 (SLED1)
How does it work?
SLED sessions operate much like a seminar: students discussing topics covered by the module that week. SLED1 groups are run by two SLED1 leaders, who are themselves second or third year undergraduate students.
Being careful not to teach, the SLED1 student leaders work to facilitate a discussion in which people can express themselves freely and learn together.
The main objectives of SLED1 are ...
- to offer first year students the opportunity to co-operatively explore further topics arising from weekly lectures and seminars in a relaxed atmosphere (biscuits are provided!)
- enhance student experience through collaborate learning and inclusiveness into wider academic community within the School.
Why SLED? A collaborative learning experience and pastoral care
Sessions provide a space for students to explore wider issues,
receive support from their peers and engage with learning beyond the
seminar and lecture format.
Being a link between academic staff and the students, the SLED plays an
induction role allowing the facilitators to strengthen their
interpersonal and academic skills.
This is of particular use for an introductory theory module, the content of which is a cornerstone for political education and introduces many new and complex ideas.
SLED1 sessions encourage students to think about and discuss questions such as ...
- Is it correct to believe that democracies do not go to war?
- Why does inequality persist internationally?
- Who is responsible for the global financial crisis?
- Are international organisations effective in addressing global issues?
- In what ways do we see Realist/Liberal thinking existing in the international system today?
or ...
- Is leadership always necessary?
- What is the difference between 'might' and 'right'?
- Does cultural diversity pose a threat to political order and stability?
- Can inequality be justified?
- Should civil liberties be restricted in response to terror?
As well as more prosaic questions ...
- How to plan an essay?
- What is plagiarism?
- What are academically credible sources?
- Why being analytical and critical pays off?
- How to make the most of your seminar tutor’s help?
The SLED Level one is a vibrant and intelectually stimulating network of young people. There are more than forty leaders involved in the project on weekly basis. Contact us and become a part of this unique student experience!
Student Views on SLED
Student Leader View: Nikitha Aithal
Student Leader View: Barney Anderson
Student Leader View: Gilberto Algar-Faria
Student Led Discussion, or SLED, is a relaxed and open space in which students are able to further explore the content of modules studied as part of their undergraduate degree.
Discussion groups facilitated by peers from senior years, provide an ideal environment in which to share, engage, and develop the thoughts and ideas of undergraduate students, with the help and input of their peers.
(Mathew Milner, SLED Leader)