Peer Study Groups as Catalyst for Vocational Exploration

Abstract

Postsecondary peer assisted learning programs often cite improving academic achievement for students. This qualitative study at the University of Minnesota investigated the potential effect of serving as a student facilitator of a peer study group on their future vocation. This was a replication of previous studies of personal and professional outcomes for study group facilitators. Findings of this study suggest the facilitator experience strongly influenced their interest in careers, especially related to the teaching profession. This study explores why these programs generate these outcomes through linking leading theorists to the research outcomes. Peer study group programs present a co-curricular experience that could be more powerful if it was intentional for professional development outcomes of the student facilitators and participants. With the highly competitive job market for today’s college graduates, institutions must use every opportunity to increase job readiness skills of its graduates.