Abstract

The paper describes the implementation of a Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) programme on the Management Foundation Course in the School of Service Industries at Bournemouth University. PAL is a specialised form of mentoring whereby trained second year students - Student Leaders - run study support for first year students. The emphasis is on the acquisition by first years of a deeper understanding of course subject matter and the development of critical thinking skills. Student Leaders do not teach and have no specific knowledge to impart, but instead facilitate group discussion among first years through the use of process-oriented techniques. PAL is contextualised to Service Industries by its emphasis on assistance with difficult course components. The evidence base of PAL is discussed as are the research aims of the PAL Project.