Definition

Peer tutoring, is generally accepted as a strongly research-based, and increasingly popular, teaching technique that has positive impact on both mainstream and Learning Disabled students. While the structure of peer tutoring can take many forms, generally the teacher provides the new content of a lesson and then structures the class so that students can drill the information in small groups. Students need expectations demonstrated for their peer teaching; in other words, how to effectively ask questions and provide feedback. This technique is an effective way for students to teach and practice what they have learned to solidify their understanding, while gaining more one-on-one discussion and attention. Additionally, this instructional practice provides an opportunity for positive social interactions and content mastery. Teachers can purposely match mainstream students and students with Learning Disabilities to foster social interaction and learning from one another (Aboud, 2006). 

The video above shows how peer tutoring works. This is just one way to go about it in the classroom. This video shows one student as being assigned the role of the tutor and the other the student (Drollinger, 2015).

Purpose/Effectiveness

Peer tutoring is an effective educational strategy for classrooms of diverse learners because it promotes academic gains as well as social enhancement. Programs can be successfully implemented at the classroom-level or on a wider scale at the school — or district-level. With administrative support and professional development, peer tutoring can help teachers cope with challenges such as limited instructional time, multiple curricular requirements, and appropriate social engagement among students. Students engage in active learning while staying abreast of the progress they are making. They are held accountable for their achievement, and motivated by social or tangible rewards. A goal of peer tutoring is to create self-managed learners with high self-esteem (Reading Rockets, 2015). 

Classwide Peer Tutoring

Classwide peer tutoring involves all of the students in the classroom actively teaching/learning in small groups for an extended period of time. It is effective for a variety of age groups, and types of specific learning disabilitiess, as well as other exceptionalities, such as autism, developmental disabilities, mild retardation, behavior disorders, ADD, etc. Students with and without learning disabilities are able to work with one another to learn specific material. This contributes to all students feeling actively engaged in the process and increased peer support and opportunities for success, while also increasing positive social interactions among students (Aboud, 2006). 

Peer Tutoring In Art Class

As an art teacher, peer tutoring is a highly effective way for students to learn. Fear of judgment in and failure in an art class often shows up more strongly than other subject areas. Perhaps this is due to the fact that the student's mastery of the subject matter is so clearly illustrated in a visual manner. It's been shown that students working together, offering constructive feedback and sharing ideas, can often prove the most motivational and effective for student learning. The challenge is to find ways that every student can be an "expert" and teach the others in small groups. While some students have a quicker mastery of formal art techniques,  we can employ other students to teach art history concepts, abstract art techniques, or practical applications of art within other subject areas (Aboud, 2006).

Resources:

​Aboud, A. (2006). The Special Ed Wiki. Retrieved October 29, 2015, from http://sped.wikidot.com/peer-tutoring-as-an-instructional-strategy

 Drollinger, M. (2015, October 12). Class Wide Peer Tutoring. Retrieved October 29, 2015, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9i5yWzz79s  

​ Using Peer Tutoring to Facilitate Access. (2015). Retrieved October 29, 2015, from http://www.readingrockets.org/article/using-peer-tutoring-facilitate-access