WC-PLN Story
The West Coast Peer Learning Network (WC-PLN) began in 2015 as a grass-roots effort by colleges and universities in California’s Inland Empire supporting students through Supplemental Instruction and Tutoring programs. What started as the Inland Empire Supplemental Instruction (IE-SI) Regional Group evolved into the West Coast Supplemental Instruction (WCSI) Conference and has now expanded into WC-PLN, a broader, mission-driven network supporting peer-to-peer academic learning initiatives across the western region of the United States and beyond.
WC-PLN Mission
The mission of WC-PLN is to advance the collective impact of peer-led academic support by fostering collaboration, sharing evidence-based practices, and supporting the professional growth of those who design, lead, and participate in peer learning programs. Rooted in the guiding principle of “students empowering students to succeed,” WC-PLN centers both student experience and practitioner development in its work.
WC-PLN serves as a collaborative network of academic support professionals, faculty, administrators, and student leaders, providing year-round opportunities for connection, learning, and leadership development through conferences, webinars, and regional initiatives.
“Students empowering students to succeed”
The Work of WC-PLN Emphasizes:
Best Practices
Peer-to-peer academic support including Supplemental Instruction, Embedded Tutoring, and related models.
Research & Assessment
Evidence-based approaches to inform and strengthen program design and student outcomes.
Innovation
Advancing peer learning and collaborative educational practices across the field.
Active & Collaborative Learning
Strategies that deepen student engagement and drive academic success.
Professional Development
Leadership growth opportunities for staff and student leaders across peer learning programs.
Scalable & Equitable Approaches
Improving student success across diverse institutional contexts throughout the western region.
WC-PLN Values
Responsibility
Developing participants as valuable members of the educational team, encouraging personal and professional growth, and empowering civic-minded leaders.
Collaboration
Building a network of leaders and educators across the western region of the U.S. who share knowledge and support one another.
Equity
Fostering an environment that welcomes and celebrates each participant’s unique perspectives and contributions.
Fun
Providing learning experiences that are engaging, fun, and memorable for every participant.
