The Power of Peer Mentoring and Tutoring!
October 18, 2017
I have never been a super “researchy” type of person (that’s a word…right?) I usually just go with the way something makes me feel, but there is actually tons of research to support the benefits of inclusion for both the person being included and their peers.
Peer mentoring and tutoring have been found to be a huge benefit for both students with special needs AND their typical peers. The types of instructional strategies found in inclusive classrooms, including peer tutoring, cooperative learning groups, and differentiated instruction, have been shown to be beneficial to all learners.
In one study, it was found that math scores for students with and without disabilities increased by nearly half a grade level as a result of working in cooperative learning groups. Peer tutoring also resulted in significant increases in spelling, social studies, and other academic areas for students with and without disabilities.
In addition, children with intellectual disabilities educated in general education settings have been found to score higher on literacy measures than students educated in segregated settings.
And a little makeup tutoring sesh in the bathroom can’t hurt either!! EVERYONE WINS!!!
