Peer support

Peer-assisted learning is a key feature of many universities in the United Kingdom. The University of Northampton has participated in a student peer support scheme since 1991.

The students providing support are trained by the Centre for Academic Practice (CfAP) and on successful completion of their training, they are then employed by the University as a student mentor or facilitator as appropriate. The nature of support can vary from mature students giving their view of what to expect from HE, to students giving subject/ course advice to students studying the same course/ module. The aim is to enhance the experience of first year students.

Mentors

These are second/ third year students who have been identified by the module leader, or who have applied to be a mentor via the module leader or Head of CfAP. Modules from all schools participate in the scheme.

Facilitators

These are second/ third year students who have applied to CfAP to:

1. Assist in pre-enrolment events such as The Flying Start or 'Survivor's Guide'
2. Assist in providing support to students in the Centre for Academic Practice.

Volunteers from these groups may be requested to carry out evaluation activities such as commenting upon study skills text or, providing views on draft policies etc.

Principles and practices of Peer Support

Peer support encourages first year students to take greater responsibility for their own learning through their engagement with the learning process. Mentors share their experience whereas lecturers share their expertise. They encourage a collaborative sharing of understanding by leading a group based event that facilitates students learning to process the content of their lectures, or learning how to approach assignments.

Mentors may support students on a one-to-one basis or by 'e-mentoring' (via a 'don't panic' button on NILE).

Peer support is confidential, voluntary and available to students, where the module team has opted to participate in the scheme.

Following training, student mentors can 'spend' an agreed number of hours in supporting their peers and in providing feedback to module/ course leaders and/ or the Head of CfAP.