How can you structure online peer tutoring sessions for science course success?

2 Step 2: Choose your tools

When it comes to online peer tutoring, you should select tools that meet your needs and preferences, and are compatible with your devices and internet connection. For example, video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet allow you to see and hear each other, as well as share your screen or documents. Online whiteboards, like Jamboard, Miro, or Aww App, can be used to draw diagrams, graphs, or equations and annotate or comment on them. Additionally, online quizzes, flashcards, or games such as Kahoot, Quizlet, or Socrative can help test your knowledge or recall of concepts. Finally, online documents, spreadsheets, or slides like Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides are useful for creating notes, summaries, or presentations and collaborating or commenting on them.

3 Step 3: Set your agenda

Once you have your goals and tools ready, you should set your agenda for the online peer tutoring session. This should include a brief introduction and icebreaker to establish rapport and trust with your peer tutor, as well as check the technical setup and tools. Additionally, you should review your goal and expectations to clarify what you want to learn and how you want to learn it, all while agreeing on the roles and responsibilities of each participant. The main activity or task should focus on active learning and practice of the topic or skill you want to improve, with feedback or support from your peer tutor. Finally, a wrap-up and reflection should summarize what you learned, what you still need to work on, and what you can do next. Don't forget to thank your peer tutor and provide feedback!

4 Step 4: Follow the rules

During your online peer tutoring session, it is important to follow certain rules to ensure a positive and productive experience. Respect and courtesy should be observed to create a safe and supportive learning environment, while punctuality and preparedness should be maintained to show commitment and respect for the peer tutor's time and effort. Additionally, it is important to be active and collaborative in the learning process, sharing ideas, questions, or challenges. Finally, one should remain flexible and open-minded in order to adapt to any changes or challenges that may arise, as well as accept different perspectives or approaches.

5 Step 5: Monitor your progress

Throughout your online peer tutoring session, you should monitor your progress and check your understanding by asking and answering questions to clarify any doubts or confirm any assumptions. You can also use self-assessment or peer-assessment strategies to evaluate your knowledge, skills, or performance, and to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, you should seek or give feedback to improve your learning outcomes, and to acknowledge or appreciate your peer tutor's contributions. Finally, review or summarize your main points to reinforce your memory, recall, or comprehension, and to highlight your key takeaways.

6 Step 6: Follow up

After your online peer tutoring session, it is important to follow up with your peer tutor and yourself. You can express your gratitude by sending a thank-you note, and review your notes or materials to consolidate your learning. Additionally, reflecting on your experience can help you evaluate your learning process and outcomes, while planning your next session can set new goals and expectations. Doing all of this will help ensure a successful online peer tutoring experience.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?