Peer teacher training (PTT) in action

BACKGROUND: The benefits of peer teaching for tutors, students and institutions are well documented. Skills in peer teaching, assessment and feedback are cited as important graduate attributes by international medical councils; however, the literature on preparation for this role, specifically peer teacher training (PTT), is sparse. This study evaluated the implementation of a PTT programme adopted from the Medical School at the University of Sydney in 2016. The programme was adopted to support the development of skills in UK medical undergraduates. The training was accessed by students studying at the University of Leicester in 2017 and 2018. METHODS: The course was evaluated using mixed methods. Students completed pre- and post-course self-rated questionnaires. Semi-structured focus groups were conducted after each course to investigate students' perceptions. RESULTS: Twenty fourth-year medical students attended the PTT. Students reported improvements in their understanding of educational principles, confidence in teaching and feedback skills, and an increased likelihood of volunteering to teach. Focus groups revealed potential benefits for future patient interaction and preparation for educator roles. DISCUSSION: The PTT provided an effective approach for medical students to gain perceived competence and confidence in teaching and giving feedback. Students reported an increased propensity for teaching when qualified. Students with lower self-reported teaching ability reported greater improvements following the course. Students reported unanticipated perceived benefits for improving patient education and obtaining teaching accreditation for their portfolio and future clinical roles. They perceived potential value if the training were to be made interprofessional on future courses. Furthermore, this study demonstrates the transferability of the PTT programme across university settings.