Peer-Peer Mentoring Program, a new initiative from the Student Learning Center is focusing on the advancement of teaching and learning among undergraduates across all disciplines. In many of the world renowned educational institutes peer learning approach is considered to be one of the active learning strategies that help students learn from and with each other.  The dynamic learning experience offered by peer-to-peer interactions is an integral element in fostering better academic performances. To understand why peer-to-peer learning is critical for the success of online education, one must understand its importance in meeting learning objectives. Having launched it as a pilot program in the Department of Physics and Electronics in 2021, we are now successfully running the program in many more departments.

• Create one of the best personal development platforms for students.
• Connect students to learn and grow in various subjects.
• Create an impactful teaching-learning culture amongst students.
• Promote cooperative knowledge sharing environment amongst students.
• To create an opportunity for every student to expand their skills.

Education has always been a social concept in India, so learning from peers is as critical as learning from teachers. Thus, while things are partially moving online, peer-to-peer learning technologies are critical for students to engage with and learn from each other. This becomes a source of encouragement and motivates them to push boundaries and take up challenges. By evaluating each other’s learning and exchanging feedback on performance, students can operate in a cooperative and active environment. This promotes accountability, kinship, interdependence and deeper understanding of concepts.

Collaborating to analyze the concepts helps students approach their course content differently. They are better equipped to critically analyze what they are studying and use logic and reasoning to process any new information. In the long run, these skills pave the way for self-education and self-directed learning.

Group study sessions, attempting different exercises together, and solving problems helps students internalize the habit of brainstorming. Asking questions and working together to find answers improve the understanding of the subject matter, which automatically translates into better grades and academic performance.

The practice of peer-to-peer learning serves as a foundation to prepare students to exist and thrive in the workforce they will join as professionals. It makes them better team players who can ideate effectively, think of out-of-the-box solutions and approach a single situation from diverse perspectives.