It’s a Win–Win–Win: Using Human Peer to Peer Networks to Reach Learners Where They Are

Abstract

In the Spring 2017 semester, an instructional designer, a writing center coordinator, and a director of distance library services initiated a pilot project for a seven-campus, eight-satellite center, public university system to cross-train virtual writing tutors in baseline research skills. This case study describes the collaborative pilot program’s progress, challenges, and lessons learned and grounds the process in peer learning theory, exploring its growing acceptance in academic libraries.

Keywords:

• Peer learning theory
• peer tutors
• participatory learning
• cross-training
• virtual tutors
• case study
• training
• writing centers