Cooperative and Collaborative Learning through Reciprocal Peer Tutoring in EFL University Reading Instruction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a group activity, reciprocal peer tutoring (RPT), in order to investigate advantages and challenges of RPT in promoting cooperative and collaborative learning environment for EFL University reading instruction. The participants in this study were 89 students taking an English reading course at a Korean university. RPT is a learning strategy whereby learners help each other and learn by teaching. This program was supported by a Vygotskyan perspective which assumes that learners gain mastery and develop cognitive skills through social interaction with more proficient others and their environment. This study relied particularly on participant perceptions through questionnaire survey and Anonymous Online class Report of the course. This study showed various advantages for tutors such as learning through teaching and becoming more autonomous and responsible for their own learning. Non-threatening and highly motivating learning atmosphere are parts of benefits for tutees. Other advantages for tutees included improved level of academic self-confidence, and motivation. This study also revealed several drawbacks associated with the problem of inaccuracy in students’ production and students’ demand for more direct teacher role.