Peer Teaching: Overview, Benefits & Models

Peer teaching has long been used in academia as a method to improve learning outcomes. Research has shown that peer teaching measurably improves learning gains and knowledge retention.

Organizations find similar results when applying the peer teaching model to the workplace. Employees can revolutionize their learning journey, tapping into their peers' collective wisdom and support to enhance skill development, knowledge acquisition, and overall performance. LinkedIn’s 2024 Workplace Learning Report points out that 47% of companies are implementing career mentoring and coaching programs. After all, connecting with colleagues is an effective way to unlock peer teaching and collaborative learning.

In this article, we will explore the different aspects of the peer teaching approach, including its significance, benefits, challenges, and best practices for implementation.

We will also explain how you can leverage tools like Colleague Connect to build a culture of team networking, peer teaching, and meaningful connections. 

What is peer teaching?

In traditional applications, peer teaching is a collaborative, active learning strategy in which students take on the roles of both teacher and learner. In peer teaching, students teach and learn from one another, sharing knowledge, skills, and experiences. 

The approach is significant because it doesn’t subscribe to traditional hierarchies, recognizing that students’ perspectives and experiences add value to each other’s learning process. It differs from traditional teacher-centered approaches in the following ways: 

• Peer teaching shifts the focus from the teacher to the student. Traditionally, teachers were the primary source of knowledge and instruction. However, peer teaching is a student-centered approach that emphasizes student involvement and active participation in the learning process.
• Peer teaching empowers students to take ownership of their learning by actively engaging with course material and teaching concepts to their peers.
• Rather than passively receiving information from the teacher, active learning strategies ensure students engage in interactive learning experiences, which promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.

Peer teaching aligns with student-centered-learning philosophies by:

• Focusing on individual learning needs: Peer teaching allows personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs, preferences, and learning styles.
• Promoting autonomy and responsibility: By actively participating in the teaching and learning process, students develop autonomy and take responsibility for their own learning outcomes.
• Encouraging lifelong learning habits: Peer teaching cultivates a culture of lifelong learning by promoting curiosity, inquiry, and continuous self-improvement among students.

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Benefits of peer teaching

A Degreed study found that more than half of all workers will look to their peers first to learn a new skill. Yet, few organizations have formalized this approach or actively promoted team networking. 

Those that have, like LinkedIn, quickly realize the benefits. The company implemented a peer teaching program designed around its key values. Participants were asked to share an example of a difficult conversation they were avoiding. They were then taught methods of dealing with difficult conversations and role-played them using real examples. After they undertook the actual conversations, they reflected on the outcomes with the group, sharing ideas about what worked and what didn't. Group members reported that their real-world conversations had become more productive. 

There are many other benefits of peer teaching that can be applied to the workplace: 

1. Active engagement and participation

Active learning strategies promote deeper understanding and retention of knowledge. A study by Carnegie Mellon University's Human-Computer Interaction Institute proved this. The study found that students' performance improved significantly when they engaged in interactive activities. 

Through activities such as group discussions, peer tutoring sessions, and collaborative projects, students can ask questions, share their perspectives, and exchange ideas with their peers. This collaborative and inclusive learning environment allows them to participate in the learning process actively.

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2. Deeper subject matter expertise 

Peer teaching enables learners to reinforce their understanding of concepts by engaging in retrieval practice, elaboration, and explanation, identifying knowledge gaps, receiving feedback, and applying their knowledge in new contexts. By teaching concepts to others, students not only deepen their own understanding of the material but also develop valuable communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills that are essential for workplace success and lifelong learning.

As far back as 2000 years ago, the Roman philosopher Seneca dubbed the phenomenon the protégé effect - which means "while we teach, we learn." In 1997, Elaine B. Coleman, Ann L. Brown, and Inna D. Rivkin published research demonstrating that actively teaching others significantly enhances learning outcomes and deepens understanding compared to passive preparation alone.

3. Increase in collaboration and social learning

Peer teaching promotes collaboration and social learning by encouraging peer-to-peer interactions, fostering empathy and understanding, enhancing teamwork skills, improving communication skills, and promoting peer mentorship. 

By working together to construct knowledge and solve problems, learners develop essential skills and competencies that prepare them for academic, professional, and personal success. This is supported by the Carnegie Mellon University's Human-Computer Interaction study, which, additionally found that effective active learning strategies and methods provided increased emotional and social support to learners.

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4. Enhanced communication and leadership skills

Serving as teachers requires students to communicate complex concepts and ideas to their peers clearly and understandably. They learn to organize their thoughts, structure their presentations, and use appropriate language and examples to convey information effectively. Through practice and feedback, students refine their communication and presentation skills, becoming more articulate and confident communicators. 

Additionally, peer teaching provides valuable leadership opportunities as students take on roles of responsibility and authority in guiding their peers' learning. As peer teachers, students lead group discussions, facilitate collaborative activities, and provide guidance and support to their peers. They learn to effectively manage group dynamics, resolve conflicts, and foster a positive and inclusive learning environment. These leadership experiences help students develop confidence, initiative, team networking, and decision-making skills essential for success in various personal and professional contexts.

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5. Improved confidence and self-efficacy

A University of Carolina dissertation study found students’ self-confidence rose with the implementation of peer teaching instruction. The positive experiences and successes gained through a student-centered approach like peer teaching can have a lasting impact on students' self-perception as capable learners. As students internalize their achievements and recognize their potential to impact others through teaching and mentorship positively, they develop a resilient mindset and a belief in their ability to overcome challenges and succeed in future academic and professional endeavors. 

6. Better learning environment 

Peer teaching fosters a supportive and inclusive learning community by promoting mutual support and assistance. Shared learning experiences and support facilitate collaboration and cooperation, giving learners agency over their learning journey. While peer feedback offers learners encouragement, validation, and guidance, playing a critical role in learning and growth. It provides students with valuable insights into their strengths and areas for improvement, helping them refine their understanding of the material and enhance their teaching and communication skills. 

Peer teaching models

Peer teaching encompasses diverse instructional models and techniques that leverage peer-to-peer interaction to enhance learning. Let’s expore different peer teaching models, their key characteristics, benefits, and considerations for implementation.

Peer tutoring

In peer tutoring, students with proficiency in a particular subject or skill serve as tutors to support their peers who may need additional help. Peer tutoring typically involves one-on-one or small group interactions. For tutored students, it offers personalized support, guidance, and encouragement, while tutors enhance their communication skills and gain confidence in their subject. 

Colleges and universities often have peer tutoring centers or programs where students can receive free or low-cost tutoring services from their peers. There are also several online peer tutoring platforms. For best results, tutors should receive training and support. There should be a thoughtful pairing of tutors and students, clear expectations of both roles and regular two-way feedback. 

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Peer mentoring

Peer mentoring focuses on providing guidance, advice, and support to peers in various contexts, including academic, personal, and professional domains. Peer mentors are typically students who have experience, knowledge, and skills that can benefit their peers. They facilitate academic success by providing guidance on study strategies, goal setting, time management, and organizational skills. 

They help mentees with social integration by connecting them with campus resources and helping them build relationships with peers, faculty, and staff. They may also support mentees in their personal development by acting as positive role models and offering empathy, encouragement, and guidance to navigate personal challenges.

Examples of peer mentoring include onboarding programs, specific skill transfer training, and DEI initiatives to support underrepresented and marginalized students. For the best peer mentoring results, pairing, clear expectations, confidentiality, accountability, and feedback mechanisms should be in place. 

Peer instruction

Peer instruction is a collaborative learning model initially developed by Eric Mazur of Harvard for teaching science. In this student-centered approach, students engage in problem-solving and concept exploration under the guidance of their peers. The critical components of peer instruction typically include pre-class preparation, in-class discussions, and peer-to-peer feedback.

Peer instruction promotes active peer learning, critical thinking, and knowledge construction as students analyze problems, evaluate evidence, contrast mental models of the material, and justify their reasoning to their peers. Students also develop communication and collaboration skills and gain insights into their strengths and areas for improvement through peer feedback.

Collaborative learning groups

In collaborative learning groups, students work together in small groups, actively engaging with course material, sharing ideas, solving problems, and collectively constructing knowledge. The principles of collaborative learning emphasize interdependence, individual accountability, and group processing as essential components of the peer learning process. 

By working interdependently, students learn to value team networking, respect diverse perspectives, and leverage their collective strengths to achieve common objectives. As each student is expected to participate in group activities actively, it also promotes individual accountability. Group processing involves reflecting on and evaluating the effectiveness of group interactions, communication, and problem-solving strategies.

Effective strategies for forming and managing collaborative learning groups include setting clear group learning objectives, roles and responsibilities, and rules of conduct. Form heterogeneous groups with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and skill sets to create balanced and dynamic peer learning environments. Monitor group progress and performance regularly, providing structured guidance and support.

Jigsaw method

The jigsaw method is a structured peer teaching technique developed by Elliot Aronson in the early 1970s. Students become experts on specific topics and then teach their peers in a cooperative peer learning environment. 

Heterogeneous groups are each assigned a specific topic, and within their groups, students conduct individual research to become experts. The group reconvenes for students to share their findings, exchange information, and clarify concepts related to their assigned topics. After that, students break into expert groups of students who have become experts on the same topic. They review and consolidate their understanding of the topic, discuss key concepts, and prepare to teach the material to their peers. Finally, students return to their original heterogeneous groups, each serving as the "expert" on their assigned topic. Students take turns teaching their peers about their respective topics through presentations, discussions, or other forms of peer teaching.

The jigsaw method promotes active student engagement as students take on active roles in researching, discussing, and teaching specific topics. It fosters cooperative learning by encouraging students to work collaboratively to achieve common learning goals. It promotes peer interaction through the exchange of diverse perspectives.

6 Strategies for implementing peer teaching effectively

Peer teaching initiatives require careful planning, a structured approach, and ongoing monitoring. Follow these six strategies to ensure your peer teaching program is as effective as possible.

1. Create a supportive learning environment

A supportive and inclusive peer learning environment is crucial for facilitating effective peer teaching and maximizing the benefits of peer-led activities. Students need a safe space to feel valued, respected, and empowered to engage in learning and teaching actively.  

Build rapport and trust by showing genuine interest in participant’s well-being, respecting their perspectives and backgrounds, and creating opportunities for open communication and dialogue. Promote collaboration through group activities and set clear expectations so that participants know the purpose of activities and the roles they each play.

2. Structure peer-led activities

Structuring peer-led activities involves designing tasks and interactions that engage students in collaborative learning experiences, such as peer tutoring, group discussions, and collaborative projects. Scaffold activities with clear instructions and model desired behavior. Gradually release responsibility after providing initial support and guidance.

Encourage students to provide feedback to their peers and engage in reflective practices to assess their learning progress, identify improvement areas, and set future learning goals. Promote value and respect for diverse perspectives and contributions so that all students can participate equally.

3. Facilitate peer discussions

Facilitating peer discussions effectively requires careful planning, active engagement, and skillful management of group dynamics. Promote active listening and open-ended questions, address disruptions, off-topic conversations, or dominant voices that may hinder effective communication and collaboration among group members.

Model constructive critique by providing feedback to students on their contributions to the discussion, highlighting strengths, areas for improvement, and suggestions for further exploration or development. Assist students in developing reflective practices. 

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4. Provide assessments and feedback

Assessing peer teaching effectiveness is essential for ensuring learners achieve desired learning objectives. Observe peer teaching sessions and provide constructive feedback to peer teachers based on their teaching strategies, communication skills, content knowledge, and interactions with students. Use structured peer evaluation forms or surveys to collect feedback from learners. 

Use performance-based assessments, such as presentations, projects, quizzes, or written reflections, to evaluate students' content mastery. Compare pre- and post-teaching assessments. And always include prompts to facilitate self-reflection on teaching practices, pedagogical approaches, and students’ interactions with peers.

5. Offer professional development and support

Ongoing professional development and support for implementing peer teaching initiatives is essential for ensuring effective implementation, continuous improvement, and long-term sustainability of programs. 

Provide subject matter experts with opportunities to enhance their knowledge, skills, and teaching competencies. Introduce them to innovative approaches to peer teaching, emerging trends, and best practices in teaching and learning. You can also launch a community of practice where they can share experiences, exchange ideas, and collaborate with colleagues who are also implementing peer teaching initiatives.

6. Integrate technology

Technology offers numerous opportunities to enhance peer teaching initiatives by providing platforms and tools that facilitate online collaboration, communication, and knowledge sharing among students. Consider online collaboration software, discussion forums, peer review platforms, and evaluation tools.

How Colleague Connect facilitates and enhances peer teaching

Colleague Connect makes collaborative learning and knowledge exchange easier by connecting employees across the organization. It aligns with and complements peer teaching programs in the following ways:

Supportive features

Colleague Connect’s peer instructor matching feature allows users to find and connect with colleagues with the skills or goals they want to learn or share. Customizable templates cater to different learning objectives, cross-department introductions, onboarding, or specific skill development. Users can also access resources such as eBooks, webinars, and customer success stories to support their peer learning journey.

Through its peer feedback mechanisms, Colleague Connect enables users to give and receive feedback from their peer learning partners and track their progress and achievements. And users can rate their experience, providing suggestions for improvement.

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In-built benefits

Colleague Connect, as part of Together's platform, offers several benefits for peer teaching activities:

• Enhanced Learning Outcomes: It promotes a more fluid and informal learning environment that caters to diverse needs, allowing participants to learn from each other without the formal labels of "mentors" and "mentees."
• Personalized Instruction: The platform facilitates connections based on shared skills, goals, and traits, such as location or department, enabling customized learning experiences.
• Development of Skills: Participants can form learning partnerships to achieve professional goals together, fostering the development of critical thinking and communication skills.

The platform addresses common pain points associated with traditional peer teaching methods, such as rigid structures, limited networking opportunities, and hierarchical barriers, making learning more accessible and collaborative. It offers participants: 

• Flexibility: Colleague Connect moves beyond the constraints of conventional mentor-mentee dynamics, offering flexible learning partnerships.
• Inclusivity: The platform allows for authentic feedback and idea sharing across all seniority levels, promoting a culture of growth and expertise expansion.

• Peer networking: It helps employees comfortably engage in peer networking, making a large company feel smaller and more connected.

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User experience and interface

Together's Colleague Connect platform is designed with a focus on user experience and interface design, emphasizing:

• Ease of Use: The platform is intuitive and user-friendly. It allows employees to take charge of their learning by allowing them to approve their matches and decide the duration of these connections. This empowers employees to create their best learning relationships.
• Accessibility: The platform is accessible and inclusive, transcending traditional hierarchies and enabling everyone to learn from anyone. It caters to diverse needs and facilitates connections based on shared skills, goals, or traits.
• Interactivity: Colleague Connect fosters more fluid and informal connections within your organization. It offers a range of customizable templates, each catering to different objectives. This enhances the platform's interactivity, making it a dynamic tool for learning and development.

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Peer instructor matching and support

Learning isn’t limited to peers – today, everyone can learn something from anyone, regardless of job title or seniority.

Colleague Connect makes this a reality with a sophisticated matching process to pair employees based on shared interests, skills, and professional goals. For example, employees looking to develop specific skills can connect with colleagues with expertise in those areas, facilitating not just peer-to-peer learning but learning across the organization.

Similarly, Colleague Connect provides a platform for those with similar professional objectives to find and collaborate with like-minded colleagues. It also emphasizes the importance of personal traits such as location, department, and membership in Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to establish connections. 

Peer instructors have access to several support mechanisms, including:

• Training resources: Together's mentorship software has customizable templates for all significant mentoring formats, ensuring instructors follow best practices.
• Peer coaching: The platform allows for more fluid and less formal connections, catering to diverse needs. This empowers employees to create their best learning relationships.
• Feedback tools: Together’s reporting dashboards provide insights across the entire mentoring journey. Additionally, custom surveys can be created to obtain specific insights and feedback.

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Learning resources and activities

Together's Colleague Connect platform offers a variety of learning resources and activities to facilitate peer teaching, including:

• Interactive Tutorials: The platform provides a range of customizable templates for all major mentoring formats. These templates serve as interactive tutorials, guiding users through various learning activities and objectives.
• Discussion Forums: Discussion forums allow employees to share authentic feedback and ideas on growth.
• Collaborative Projects: Colleague Connect builds connections that, in turn, open the door to collaborative projects where employees can work together to achieve professional objectives.

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7 Peer teaching best practices

By incorporating these peer teaching best practices into instructional design and facilitation, educators can create engaging, student-centered learning environments that empower students to actively participate in their learning, develop essential skills, and achieve academic success.

1. Establish clear objectives

Clear learning objectives will align instructional goals with desired learning outcomes and ensure participants understand the purpose and expectations of the activity. Clear objectives provide direction, focus, and purpose to peer teaching initiatives.

2. Create a supportive learning environment

A supportive learning environment fosters trust, respect, and psychological safety among peer teachers and learners. It will encourage open communication, collaboration, and risk-taking, enabling students to engage actively in peer teaching activities, express their ideas freely, and learn from each other's perspectives without fear of judgment or criticism.

3. Select appropriate peer teaching techniques

Instructional strategies and activities should align with learning objectives, student needs, and teaching content. Effective peer teaching techniques and active learning strategies facilitate active learning, critical thinking, and knowledge construction among students, promoting deeper understanding and retention of course material.

4. Facilitate effective peer interactions

Provide guidance, structure, and support to ensure productive communication and collaboration among peer teachers and learners. Encourage active listening, respectful dialogue, and constructive feedback to enhance the quality of peer interactions and promote positive social interactions and relationship-building among students.

5. Provide timely feedback and evaluation

Timely feedback and evaluation allow students to reflect on their performance, identify areas for improvement, and make adjustments to enhance their learning and teaching effectiveness. It acknowledges participants’ efforts, highlights strengths, and provides constructive suggestions for growth, empowering them to become reflective practitioners and lifelong learners.

6. Promote peer collaboration and accountability

Peer collaboration and accountability encourage students to work together collaboratively, take ownership of their learning, and hold each other accountable for their contributions to the learning process. They foster teamwork, shared responsibility, and collective problem-solving, enhancing the quality of peer teaching initiatives and promoting student engagement and success.

7. Anticipate challenges and provide solutions

Identify and proactively mitigate potential barriers to effective peer teaching, such as uneven participation, conflicts, or misunderstandings. Preventive measures may include clear communication, conflict resolution strategies, and scaffolding support to mitigate potential issues and ensure the success of peer teaching initiatives.

Conclusion

Peer teaching is a dynamic and transformative educational strategy that empowers learners to take charge of their educational journey while fostering collaborative learning communities. By embracing peer teaching, organizations and individuals can revolutionize their approach to learning, tapping into peers' collective wisdom and support to enhance skill development, knowledge acquisition, and overall performance. 

Colleague Connect is an indispensable tool for facilitating and maintaining impactful peer teaching relationships, fostering meaningful connections, and promoting continuous learning and growth within organizations. As part of the Together platform, it enables clients to maximize accelerated learning and skill development. 

Schedule a free demo to see Colleague Connect in action