Peer Instruction is a teaching method developed by Harvard professor Eric Mazur. It involves students discussing and explaining concepts to each other in a structured format, with guidance from the instructor.
Unlike traditional teaching methods where the instructor lectures and students listen passively, Peer Instruction encourages active learning and engagement through peer discussions and interactions.
Research has shown that Peer Instruction can lead to increased student engagement, improved understanding and retention of concepts, and better critical thinking skills. It also promotes a collaborative learning environment and can help students build communication and teamwork skills.
To implement Peer Instruction, the instructor first presents a concept or question to the class. Students then have time to think and individually answer the question, followed by discussing their answers with their peers in small groups. The instructor then facilitates a class-wide discussion and provides further explanation and clarification as needed.
Yes, Peer Instruction can be used in a variety of subject areas and has been proven effective in both STEM and non-STEM fields. It is a versatile teaching method that can be adapted to fit different learning objectives and topics.