Peer-supported learning groups: a collaborative approach to supporting students learning in engineering and technology

This paper describes a non-traditional tutoring programme based on collaborative peer-support learning approach, and reflects on two years of its implementation to specific subjects in engineering and information technology based courses at the University of Limerick in Ireland. The programme, known as the Peer-Supported Learning Groups (PSLG), is an academic enrichment scheme which has been developed by adapting the SI model such that it meets the needs of the students in Ireland and, at the same time, fits into the Irish third-level education system. The paper begins by giving a rationale for the introduction of the PSLG to the targeted subjects and the reasons for choosing the SI model. This is followed by description of the operational structure of the programme highlighting the difficulties encountered at the initial stages and the measures taken to alleviate these difficulties. Quantitative measures for evaluating the effect of the PSLG on student’s performance, as well as analysis of feedback collected from the students and the leaders, are presented and discussed. The paper concludes by outlining issues for improving the current programme and associated further developments.