Peer-assisted learning from three perspectives: student, tutor and co-ordinator

Abstract

Background: Peer-assisted learning (PAL) involves medical students teaching other medical students. Although the concept is not new, formal PAL is a relatively new development in medical education.

Context: PAL Manchester is a peer-assisted learning scheme that has run for over 6 years at Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust. It is a student-led scheme that teaches clinical skills to medical students in years 3-5 of the Manchester curriculum. The scheme comprises small group sessions of 12 students and two peer tutors.

Innovation: Here, we present the experiences of PAL Manchester from three perspectives: student (Francesca Liuzzi), peer tutor (Elspeth Hill) and student co-ordinator (James Giles). These accounts illustrate the roles within PAL Manchester and the personal benefits that may be derived from such a scheme.

Implications: Different roles for medical students can be developed within a PAL scheme, presenting different challenges and benefits to participants.