A model for peer tutoring in the medical school setting

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Peer Tutoring Programs
• Academic Support

Background:

• The University of Maryland School of Medicine has implemented a peer tutorial program.
• This program focuses on basic science courses for first and second-year medical students.
• The Office of Medical Education manages the program.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a basic science peer tutorial program.
• To discuss the management procedures for such a program.
• To explore the benefits for both tutored students and student tutors.

Main Methods:

• Formation of 122 tutoring dyads over two academic years (1981-82, 1982-83).
• Tutoring provided in nine of ten first and second-year basic science courses.
• Data collected on student performance in tutored courses.

Main Results:

• Tutored students achieved passing grades in 102 out of 122 (84%) courses.
• The program demonstrated success in improving academic outcomes for struggling students.
• Peer tutoring positively impacted student performance in challenging medical science subjects.

Conclusions:

• The peer tutorial program is an effective method for enhancing medical student academic performance.
• Implementing and managing such programs requires a systematic approach.
• Peer tutoring offers reciprocal benefits for both students receiving and providing academic support.