Undergraduate Peer-Assisted Learning in the Clinical Setting

Peer-assisted learning was implemented at a private university. Senior nursing students were assigned to assist sophomores during their fundamentals clinical experience. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of peer-assisted learning in the clinical setting and to ascertain students' perceptions of fulfilling the roles of the professional nurse. During a 2-year period, 342 students participated in peer-assisted learning. Major outcomes identified by sophomores were reduced anxiety and increased confidence. A major benefit for seniors was reflection on their professional development, which strengthened their confidence and facilitated transition into the role of professional nurse. Future research should examine the impact of diversity and learning styles on this strategy and faculty perception of peer-assisted learning at achieving learning outcomes and relieving faculty burden. This study supports peer-assisted learning as an effective teaching strategy for learning nursing skills and implementing the roles of the professional nurse.