The Peer Tutoring Program

How you can become a peer tutor
How you can get help from a peer tutor

About the Program

Definition

Peer tutoring is the system of instruction in which learners help each  other and learn by teaching

Goodlad (1979:13)

Numbers of studies report benefits of peer tutoring to tutors, tutees and institutions (Wallace 1996, Spratt & Leung 2000, Beasley 1997). At Zayed University a program has been operating since February 2001 whereby proficient students tutor other students who need help in various areas. Currently, tutors provide help with English, study skills, math and computer packages.

Peer tutoring gives weak learners an additional option for assistance, and gives experienced learners an opportunity to develop leadership skills.

Recruitment

Tutors apply for the positions through the career resource center and are interviewed by the Learning Enhancement Center faculty and staff.

The tutees are either self-nominated or nominated by their teachers. Preference for help is given to students at risk.

Training

All of the tutors take part in a two part training session which provides practical training and emphasizes a combination of affective and cognitive strategies.

The training specifically targeted problems that Zayed University students commonly face, along with strategies and materials that address those student problems.

Tutors are expected to keep records of the sessions. These records are housed in the LEC and are available to the tutees and their instructors.

Organization

A tutoring schedule is managed by the LEC technician. Tutors and tutees are contacted by e-mail and the meetings take place in the LEC. The sessions are a combination of one-on-one sessions and small groups.

ZULOs

Peer tutoring provides students with an excellent opportunity to develop competence in the areas of leadership, critical thinking and teamwork. There are plenty of opportunities for tutors to document their progress as evidence for their portfolios.

How you can become a peer tutor
How you can get help from a peer tutor

References

Beasley, C. (1979). Students as teachers: the benefits of peer tutoring. Teaching and Learning Forum 1997.

Goodlad, S. (1979). Learning by Teaching. London: Community Service Volunteers

Spratt, M. & Leung, B. (2000). Peer tutoring and peer learning revisited. ELT Journal Volume 54/3 July 2000.

Wallace, J. (1996). Peer tutoring: A collaborative approach. In S. Wolfendale and J. Corbett (Eds.). Opening doors: learning support in higher education. London: Cassel Publishers, 101-116.