Math 3-6

Peer Teaching

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Overview

Having students teach their knowledge, skills, and understanding to their classmates strengthens learning. Preparing to teach and then explaining a concept in their own words improves students' clarity of understanding and Math Communication skills, as well as supports greater retention in Long-term Memory.

Resources

References: Peer Teaching
Abdelkarim, R. E., & Abuiyada, R. (2016). The effect of peer teaching on mathematics academic achievement of the undergraduate students in Oman. International Education Studies, 9(5), 124-132.

Dueck, G. (1993). Picture Peer Partner Learning: Students Learning from and with Each Other: Instructional Strategies Series No. 10. Regina, Saskatchewan: Saskatchewan Professional Development Unit/Saskatchewan Instructional Development and Research Unit, University of Regina.

Alegre, F., Moliner, L., Maroto, A., & Lorenzo-Valentin, G. (2018). Peer tutoring in mathematics in primary education: A systematic review. Educational Review, 1-26.

Gutierrez, R. (2012). Context matters: How should we conceptualize equity in mathematics education?. In Herbel-Eisenmann, B., Choppin, J., Wagner, D., & Pimm, D. (Eds.) Equity in discourse for mathematics education (pp. 17-33). Dordrecht: Springer.

TeachThought Staff. (2017, August 28). The definition of peer teaching: A sampling of existing research [Blog post].

Toumasis, C. (1990). Peer teaching in mathematics classrooms: A case study._ For the Learning of Mathematics_, 10(2), 31-36.

Whitman, N. A., & Fife, J. D. (1988). Peer teaching: To teach is to learn twice__ (__ASHE-ERIC Higher Education Report No. 4). Washington, DC: The George Washington University.

Use It in the Classroom

  • Teachers can invite students to give a presentation to the whole class or to teach in coordination with them to foster the student teachers' confidence and Math Mindset. Teachers can also set up math centers where a student teaches, with the classroom teacher's support, a concept to a group of students who are still developing their understanding of the concept. (Note: We emphasize teachers' active involvement in peer teaching because it is critical for them to know if students teach material accurately so that they can support the student teacher's and their classmates' understanding.)

    • Design It into Your Product

  • Products can include features where students explain concepts to a fictional character that asks questions as a way to ensure mastery as well as more focused Attention. Products can also provide audio and video tools for students to record their lessons for classmates to learn from.
    • View References

    Resources

    Below are additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.

    15 Easy Peer Teaching Strategies

    Advantages, disadvantages, and tips for peer teaching

    Benefits of Peer Teaching

    Introduction to incorporating peer teaching

    Is Peer Teaching on Your Classroom Menu?

    A quick overview of peer teaching activities

    Students Become Teachers

    How a school used peer teachers as "tour guides"

    Factors Supported by this Strategy

    Mathematics
    Algebraic Thinking
    Geometric Reasoning
    Math Communication
    Measurement
    Number Sense
    Operations
    Proportional Reasoning
    Statistical Reasoning
    Cognition
    Attention
    Inhibition
    Long-term Memory
    Short-term Memory
    Speed of Processing
    Social and Emotional Learning
    Math Mindset
    Motivation
    Social Awareness & Relationship Skills
    Student Background
    Adverse Experiences
    Math Learning Environment
    Physical Well-being
    Safety
    Sleep
    Social Supports

    More Cooperative Learning Strategies

    Collaborative Problem Solving

    As students solve problems in a group, they learn new strategies and practice communicating their mathematical thinking.

    Gallery Walk

    As students walk through stations working in small groups, the social and physical nature of the learning supports deeper understanding.

    Jigsaw

    As students work with and process information by discussing, organizing, and sharing it together, they deepen their understanding.

    Math Talks

    When students have meaningful conversations about math and use math vocabulary, they develop the thinking, questioning, and explanation skills needed to master mathematical concepts.

    Reciprocal Teaching

    Students deepen their understanding and gain confidence in their learning when they explain to and receive feedback from others.

    Think-Pair-Share

    Students deepen their math understanding as they use and hear others use specific math language in informal ways.

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