The aim of this initiative is to promote learning through mutual exchange. In peer-to-peer learning, participants share their knowledge, learn from each other, and develop new solutions together. Active participation not only fosters professional expertise but also develops important social and communication skills.
Student Life Cycle: Starting studies, specialization phase and final exam
Target group: Prospective students, current students, lecturers and staff at universities
University: Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences
In peer-to-peer learning, people learn from and with each other. The focus is on exchange on equal footing: learners share knowledge, discuss content, solve problems together, and support each other in the learning process. Unlike traditional teacher-centered instruction, knowledge transfer is not solely the responsibility of a single instructor; rather, all participants actively contribute to the learning process. The benefits of peer-to-peer learning are particularly evident in group work, workshops, and on digital learning platforms. Through explanation, questioning, and joint reflection, knowledge is not only acquired but also deepened. Those who explain content to others usually understand it better themselves and simultaneously develop their communication skills.
Student mentoring is a key peer-to-peer support program where experienced students (mentors) guide first-year or younger students. It facilitates the transition to university studies, helps with networking and organization, and offers advice on academic and personal matters. Student mentoring at Frankfurt University is informal, easily accessible, and directly integrated into the respective degree programs. The student mentors are supported and guided by academic advisors in their departments.
In addition to student mentors, numerous student assistants and subject tutors support teaching at Frankfurt University in a variety of ways. This includes modular tutorqualification programs.
We enable tutors from all disciplines to prepare for their roles and to continuously develop their professional skills. We train them for their responsible role in topics such as teaching methods, group leadership, counseling techniques, respectful communication, and diversity. Through the workshops, they gain a better understanding of the activities at the university and/or acquire key social and personal skills that are also relevant for their future careers.
Peer-to-peer support services are also used at Frankfurt University in other support programs, such as the Math and Physics Workshop and the Writing and Methods Workshop. The math, physics, and writing tutors receive training tailored to their role and independently manage the corresponding math and physics help desks or the writing consultation service in the Writing and Methods Workshop.
Natascha Hempel | natascha.hempel@fra-uas.de
Tel.: +49 69 1533-3217
Maxime Musterfrau
