What is peer tutoring?

Peer tutoring is a system where one student who has a competent grasp of a subject or course can assist another student who is having some difficulty. This assistance is generally given on a one-to-one basis. The learner chooses to use this service. No-one is directly referred by staff, but staff may advise students to make contact.

When and where does peer tutoring take place?

Peer tutoring takes place outside class time at any place convenient to both the peer tutor and the learner.

What may peer tutors teach?

Peer tutors do not replace subject tutors but assist learners to grasp the course material, which has already been taught in class. Peer tutors generally assist students on the same course but skills might sometimes cross Schools and programmes.

Does the peer tutor service receive support?

Yes. Peer tutors will be given support, and encouragement from Learning Skills Centre staff.

Can the nominated peer tutor withdraw from the scheme or re-negotiate the contract at any time?

Yes. The peer tutor can withdraw. However once a contract with the learner has been established the peer tutor must contact the Learning Skills Centre staff for cancellation or any re-negotiation of the contract.

Can the learner withdraw too?

Yes. At any time the learner also has the right to have the contract cancelled or re-negotiated. Again the Learning Skills Centre staff should be contacted.

Do peer tutors get paid?

Yes. They are paid an hourly rate of $10.00 plus 6% holiday pay. Peer tutors will be provided with a time sheet and tutoring record sheet, which must be filled in and returned regularly. The peer tutor and the learner must sign this before payment can be made.

Who can become a peer tutor?

You may apply to become a peer tutor yourself or the Programme tutor may nominate you. In both cases the Programme tutor will be asked to verify your grasp of the subject and potential ability to become a peer tutor.

Procedure:

1. You will then meet with the learner who has requested a peer tutor and together with a member of the Learning Skills staff a contract will be set up.

This includes:

• Establishing exactly what the learner's needs are and:
• Setting up a contract time-frame with beginning and end dates and the number of hours needed to meet the objectives. This contract is usually set between 2 - 10 hours.

2. You will be given details about how to record the assistance that you are giving, completing the time-sheets, systems of payment, and so on. Any questions you may have are answered at this time too.