An overview of peer tutor training strategies at German medical schools.

BACKGROUND: An increased popularity of peer-assisted learning in medical schools all over the globe has caused a growing interest in taking a closer look into how student tutors are trained to handle the task. This article provides an overview of the tutor training strategies at five medical faculties in Germany.

METHODS: Nine German medical faculties with an evident tutor training strategy were contacted by phone or e-mail. Ultimately, five of the nine contacted faculties responded and provided a detailed overview of their individual tutor training.

RESULTS: In many cases, tutors receive a mandatory didactic training in preparation of the tutorials and also an additional technical or specialized training. Frequently, tutor training is provided within the framework of an organized, faculty-based tutor training program. There is a trend towards a needs-adapted training strategy.

CONCLUSION: There is a broad variety of peer teaching and tutor training strategies at the various faculties surveyed. Their individual characteristics are determined by factors such as the nature of tutorials and the number of students.