A Case Study of Peer Tutoring Program on General English

Yu, Kyung-Ah

Korean Journal of General Education 2016;10(2):93-126.
Published online June 30, 2016.

Kyung-Ah Yu

동료 튜터링 운영 사례 연구

유경아

Abstract

Peer tutoring programs have been currently implemented in Korean undergraduate education in order to assist incoming students to improve their basic academic knowledge and skills. Although there have been numerous studies about the effect of peer tutoring programs on various subject areas and their operational aspects, only very little research has been done on the effect of tutoring programs on students general English achievement. This study aims to investigate how peer tutoring influences the tutees basic English proficiency and their grades on General English. A total of 189 tutees took part in this study for three semesters. An 8-week tutoring program was offered to the participants per semester. They took pre-post English tests and completed the survey at the end of the program to see how effectively the program was operated and how much the tutees were satisfied with the program and the tutors. Also, the best tutees selected by the tutors were asked to fill in the pros and cons of the program. The findings revealed that the tutoring program has positively affected the tutuees English abilities and their grades on General English. Statistical significant mean differences were found between pre and post English tests in each semester, and the tutees grades on General English were also statistically improved. The survey results also revealed that the tutees perceived that the program helped them studying the basic English words, pronunciation and grammar and understanding the meanings of English sentences as well as increasing of their interests and self-confidence in English. On the other hand, the survey results showed several improvement parts involving opportunities studying with various lesson materials, a longer program operation period and advanced educational environment. Theoretical and pedagogical implications are discussed.

Key Words: learning community, peer tutoring, coaching English program, general English