What purpose does 'peer tutoring' serve in the classroom?

Peer tutoring serves a vital role in the classroom by significantly increasing understanding and mastery of the material for both the tutor and the tutee. When students engage in peer tutoring, they are often required to explain concepts in their own words, which reinforces their own understanding while simultaneously helping their peers grasp the subject matter. This collaborative learning environment allows students to ask questions freely and encourages a deeper exploration of concepts, facilitating greater comprehension.

Furthermore, the process of teaching someone else helps the tutor solidify their own knowledge, making peer tutoring a mutually beneficial experience. It creates opportunities for students to engage actively with the content, promoting cognitive and social development within the classroom. Overall, the emphasis on increased understanding and mastery underscores the effectiveness of peer tutoring as an instructional strategy.