Arab World English Journal (AWEJ) Proceedings of 1st MEC TESOL Conference 2018 Pp. 64-77
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.24093/awej/MEC1.5
Who is at Edge – Tutors or Tutees? Academic, Social and Emotional elevation through Peer Tutoring
Reema Srivastava
Centre for Foundation Studies
Middle East College
Knowledge Oasis Oman, Al Rusayl, Muscat, Oman
Muhammed Rashid
Centre for Foundation Studies
Middle East College
Knowledge Oasis Oman, Al Rusayl, Muscat, Oman
Abstract:
Peer tutoring or peer assisted learning is an effective instructional strategy that involves active and interactive participative learning process resulting in a deeper understanding of concepts for both ‘Tutors’ and ‘Tutees’. The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of peer tutoring on Academic achievements of the students in the General Foundation and Undergraduate Programmes at a private college in Oman. It will further explore other advantages, especially social and emotional benefits, the tutors and tutees may gain by taking part in peer tutoring programme held at Middle East College, Oman. The study was conducted through an online survey, personal interviews and judging the in-class performances of these students. The results revealed some interesting benefits for both the ‘Tutors’ and the ‘Tutees’. For the ‘Tutors’ it was a bolstering experience as it led to increased knowledge and skills; self-confidence; and a sense of responsibility. The ‘Tutees’ on the other hand developed – (i) a better liking for the subject concerned; (ii) better cooperation skills among their peers; (iii) increased motivation to study a particular subject; (iv) better communication Skills; (v) better stress management; and (vi) confidence. Peer tutoring is seen as a great advantage to gain learner autonomy to reap the full benefits of academic life by nurturing innate talent and abilities. The shift from teacher-led to student-centered classes has been hailed as a milestone in order to foster learner autonomy and productive learning.
Keywords: academic support, at-risk, feedback, flexible environment, learner autonomy, peer assisted learning,
Cite as: Srivastava, R., & Rashid, M. (2018). Who is at Edge – Tutors or Tutees? Academic, Social and Emotional elevation through Peer Tutoring. Arab World English Journal (AWEJ). Proceedings of 1st MEC TESOL Conference 2018