Developing a peer-assisted learning community through MSN Messenger: A pilot program of PALS online

Abstract

Evidence suggests that peer-assisted learning schemes on campus help students to establish social networks that can have a positive influence on their learning achievements. At USQ, the majority of students are off campus, which raises the urgent question: how to harness the advantages of PALS (Peer Assisted Learning Strategy) in an online environment? Given that the potential problem of social isolation is even more acute in distance education, how do we develop a PALS scheme online that creates a sense of community for its participants? These questions are explored by reflecting on a pilot program that was conducted during the first semester of 2006 in two different courses and made use of MSN Messenger to build collaboration amongst learners in a variety of geographical locations. This pilot program is evaluated through a survey with PALS leaders and participants, and also through comparisons with other such programs in different institutions.