Is a family member struggling with math? Are you looking for help? Maybe you live in a rural county where resources are scarce. Keep reading to discover.
#1 – What is Peer Math Tutoring?
First, let’s discover what peer math tutoring is. Though peer tutoring is used in a traditional setting, it can also occur outside the classroom. It could also look like an after-school study group of two or more individuals. The focus of this post will emphasize tutoring with two students, one of whom is the tutor, and the other is the student receiving assistance. The tutor could be a student taking the same class, a student in a higher grade, a friend, or a family member.
#2 – Why Use a Peer for Math Success
A. Benefits for the Student
Next, let’s consider the benefits of peer math success for student learning.
- 1. Cost. If a peer charges a fee, it will be significantly less than a professional tutor.
2. Peers speak a similar vernacular, using terms they can relate to.
3. Peers come to the table with different strengths: logical interpretations, creative and relatable comparisons, calculation “experts,” illustrators, and the ability to explain a difficult concept in simple terms.
4. Working with a peer may be less intimidating.
5. When provided with a positive peer tutoring experience, the student may be inspired to also provide peer tutoring for others on the same or different subjects. The gift goes on.
B. Benefits for the Peer Math Tutor
Likewise, what benefits are there for the peer tutor? See the list below:
- 1. Increases the tutor’s confidence in the skill being taught
2. Gain overall self-confidence and self-esteem, feeling good that they were able to help someone
3. Provides opportunity to practice empathy
4. Develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills
5. Increases opportunities to practice positive social and communication skills
#3 – How to Find Peer Tutors
Furthermore, how do you go about finding a peer tutor?
First, start with your family. Can you or another sibling help? Are there cousins, aunts, uncles, or grandparents available?
Second, ask your child/teenager if there is a friend or another classmate who could provide help.
Third, check with your child’s/teenager’s teacher to determine if the school has a list of approved peer tutors. When doing so, inquire if these peers charge a fee, when they are available, and where they meet with students.
Fourth, check with other parents. They may also provide feedback about the effectiveness and approval rating of the tutor.
#4 – Are There Disadvantages?
On the other hand, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of using a peer tutor. Questions you might consider are listed below.
- 1. Potential for inaccurate information given
2. Conversational distractions: the upcoming fall dance, discussion related to movies, or other topics that take away from instruction time
3. Agitating disagreements that hinder more than they help the student learn
4. Only the answers are given, vs. an explanation on how to complete the problem
Therefore, learn about the potential peer tutor before utilizing their services. Many peer tutors may work with a student at the school or in a public library, which provides you with an opportunity to be nearby to ensure a safe and beneficial learning experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, though peer tutoring can be helpful for both the student and the peer tutor, it is just as important to ensure the peer tutoring is both safe and helps increase the student’s understanding of math concepts.
Looking for More Materials?
Click the button below to view more of my educational resources!