Peer Learning: An Innovative Classroom Strategy (Exclusively for Language Acquisition)

X. AKSHAY JOSEPH DYLON
II M. A. Eng Lit
St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous)
Trichy – 620 002
Email ID: akshayjosephdylon@gmail.com
Mob: 91 5241 52462

ABSTRACT

A tension (about the subject and the fear towards the teachers) free teaching/learning process is possible with the peer learning methodology. This paper argues that the importance given for peer learning pedagogy in the curriculum could be mounted up a little more, in particular for language learning, for a better outcome. In addition, the practices in the method, because of which it proved to be efficient when compared to the other methodologies, is also discussed in this paper. The importance of ‘Teacher’s Silence’ and the outcome of it are highlighted. The Affective Filter Hypothesis of Krashen appears to be in line with the Peer Learning Pedagogy. Suggesting some activities related to language teaching, this paper further requests the syllabus setters and the educationists to promote this approach among teachers through further more research in methods and activities to inculcate this technique among the learners, to help them learn the language doubt-free and acquire it to the fullest. An old appeal towards teaching pedagogy, but still an unpopular approach would be Peer Learning. According to Boud, Peer Learning essentially refers to students learning with and from each other as fellow learners without any implied authority to any individual, based on the tenet that students learn a great deal by explaining their ideas to others and by participating in activities in which they can learn from their peers. This methodology is student friendly and entirely student centered as the able peers who guides the others are also students.
Importance of Peer Learning: In peer learning, students will construct