FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What is the primary role of a peer tutor?

1. A student teaches younger children

2. A trained student teaches their classmates

3. A teacher guides students in groups

4. A mentor providing individualized support

The correct answer is: A trained student teaches their classmates

The primary role of a peer tutor is to assist their classmates by providing support and guidance in academic learning. This relationship is built on a foundation of shared experiences and understanding, as the peer tutor can relate to the challenges their classmates face. A peer tutor offers tailored assistance in a manner that can be less intimidating than traditional teaching methods, encouraging students to engage more deeply with the material. In this context, the peer tutor often employs techniques that are effective for their own learning, thereby creating a relatable and effective learning environment for their peers. This role fosters collaboration, enhances understanding, and builds confidence among students, making the learning process more effective and interactive. While teaching younger children, group guidance by a teacher, or a mentor providing individualized support are all valuable educational roles, they do not encapsulate the essence of what a peer tutor does, which is primarily focused on reciprocal learning between classmates.