Peer tutoring in nursing: Quantitative evaluation of a formalized undergraduate tutoring program

Abstract

Background and objective: Based on the limited literature, a formalized peer tutoring program was developed at the study institution’s School of Nursing to promote the success of academically at-risk students.  The evaluation process was designed to guide program improvement as well as to contribute to the available literature related to peer tutoring in programs of nursing. The purpose of this study was to formally evaluate a newly developed formalized peer tutoring program for undergraduate nursing students, to inform other undergraduate nursing programs considering implementing a peer tutoring program.

Methods: The peer tutoring program was evaluated using parallel post-experience surveys for tutors and tutees. Participants also completed a Learning and Studying Strategies Questionnaire, to determine if strategy use differed between the two groups.

Results: There were no statistically significant differences in learning/studying strategies used by tutors and tutees, with both being predominantly superficial strategies. Tutors and tutees evaluated the tutoring program overwhelmingly positively. A few students did make suggestions for improvements in the payment system and suggested making tutoring more widely available.

Conclusions: The formalized peer tutoring program is a valuable asset in promoting the academic success of undergraduate nursing students.  Minor changes to the program have been made according to student suggestions.