4.7. Exploring the power of peer coaching

Building trusting relationships is often best achieved when students connect with their peers. Peer coaching is an avenue worth exploring as it provides examples of how to establish effective support systems. Students at the same level understand each other’s experiences and can offer valuable support without judgment.

As a teacher, you can facilitate connections among students facing similar circumstances. By matching them up, you help them realize they are not alone, fostering a sense of community and shared understanding.

There are several benefits of peer coaching, below we have listed a few:

• Comfortable communication: Students find it easier to confide in their peers, as there is no power imbalance. They can discuss their situations more freely and openly.
• Early intervention: Peer coaching encourages students to seek help earlier, preventing issues from escalating. The informality of the setting encourages students to address their concerns promptly.
• Collaborative learning: Peer coaching creates a collaborative environment for sharing experiences and learning from one another. Students can collectively find solutions and support each other’s growth.
• Empowerment and ownership: Placing students in dynamic situations helps them take ownership of their problems. They can focus on understanding the situation rather than solely on finding solutions.
• Cultural relevance: Peers possess a better understanding of the social dynamics and cultural context students experience. This knowledge enhances the effectiveness of support and guidance.

It is important to remember that even if there are many positives in the peer coaching, there are also some drawbacks you need to consider. Among the drawbacks we want you to pay attention to the fact that peer coaches may struggle to handle the burden if they lack appropriate training or support as they might lack the needed skills. There might also be concerns about confidentiality. Ensuring confidentiality can be challenging, and peers may not know how to manage shared information responsibly. Establishing a structure for peer coaching can be necessary, although it may seem contradictory to the informal nature of the approach. It’s also difficult to assess the quality and impact of peer coaching, as it relies on more subjective measures.