What is peer learning?

Peer learning can be a range of activities where the learners support each other and learn from each other’s experiences. This is overseen by an online tutor or mentor.

An example would be an online discussion group. This provides the opportunity to stimulate cross disciplinary discussion by posting a question to a pre-selected group of people. The other members of the group share their knowledge and experience in this area of work. This leads to greater collaboration and increased learner confidence.

Another example would be where an online discussion group is given a piece of research work. Each works on the research separately and they then come together online to discuss their findings. This provides the opportunity to reflect and both give and receive feedback.

How to use it effectively?

Planning and establishing an appropriate group of people is essential to the success of peer learning. Ongoing monitoring of the discussions or development of their research is important. The online tutor will need to provide support as and when it is needed. This will vary from group to group.

• What experience do you have of setting up and supporting online discussion groups?
• Do all participants have the necessary access to a computer?
  The online tutor or mentor will need the required skills to ensure that learning is effective.
• Does the organisation have on line tutors with the necessary skills?
• Do you know where to gain these skills?

Look at the section in the Toolkit on Trainer Readiness.