The Evidence Base for Peer Assisted Learning in Undergraduate Medical Education: a Scoping Study

Abstract

This article was migrated. The article was not marked as recommended. Peer-assisted learning (PAL) is increasing in popularity in medical education. While PAL has been used informally for generations, more formal use of it as a tool to teach and consolidate information and practical skills has been shown to be beneficial to both tutors and those being taught. This scoping study aimed to garnish a clearer understanding of the concept of PAL in undergraduate medical education and its benefits to both tutors and students alike.A five-stage methodology was performed as follows. The research question and aim of the scoping study were identified, and relevant studies were identified on a search of the literature. Screening took place to select a smaller number of studies by measurement against inclusion (e.g. referring to medical students) and exclusion (e.g. qualified doctors acting as tutors) criteria. Data was extracted and charted by two reviewers. Finally, results were collated, summarised and reported upon.Fifty-six papers met inclusion criteria and were included in the study. Many related to clinical examination, though students had identified medical sciences, mock examinations and epidemiology/statistics as subjects of interest. Organisation varied from mandatory involvement as part of a core curriculum to sporadic or once off teaching with volunteer tutors and participants. Training from tutors ranged from six weeks to nil documented. Numerous benefits for students and tutors were identified, including some within the "Hidden Cirriculum".This scoping study includes suggestions for future PAL research projects including evaluation of the degree of formal training required for tutor success; use of this practice in the teaching of basic clinical sciences (specifically statistics and epidemiology) and patient management and prospective studies into whether PAL as an undergraduate inspires future involvement in medical education for both students and tutors.