Using peer led team learning to assist in retention in computer science classes

Recent work in Peer Led Team Learning (PLTL) has resulted in development of strategies and exercises for implementation of PLTL in the first course in Computer Science as well as two higher-level undergraduate courses at a public university with a largely commuter student population. Initial results identify many reasons why students are unable to take full benefit from offered PLTL Workshops, while demonstrating the significant advantages that junior and senior Computer Science majors feel they received from the PLTL experience. Suggestions for future success with PLTL are included.