What is Peer Learning at UofG?

studying on campus

Peer learning gives students the opportunity to learn from one another through structured, student-led initiatives. It helps build confidence, improve academic skills, and foster a sense of community.

At the University of Glasgow, peer learning takes several forms, depending on the goals of each School or course.

The three main strands we support are:

  • Peer Assisted Learning (PAL): Regular group sessions where students from the same course work collaboratively on academic content. Sessions are led by trained student facilitators and focus on discussion, clarification, and shared problem-solving.

  • Peer Mentoring: Informal guidance from trained students in later years of the same degree. Mentors support small groups or individuals, offering advice on academic work and university life.

  • Peer Writing Service: Led by trained student facilitators, our Peer Writing online 1-2-1 sessions offer support with academic writing at any stage of the process, from planning and structure to clarity and expression.

Meet the Team

The Peer Learning team is part of the Student Learning Development (SLD) service. We work with students and staff across the university to design, support and grow peer learning initiatives.

For general enquiries, email: Robert.Imbur@glasgow.ac.uk

Profile photo of Bob Imbur

Robert Imbur

Peer Learning Coordinator
robert.imbur@glasgow.ac.uk 

Dr Ana Alonso Curbelo

Peer Learning Tutor
ana.alonsocurbelo@glasgow.ac.uk

Kirsty Pattinson

Peer Learning GTA
kirsty.pattison@glasgow.ac.uk 

Shruti Shukla

Peer Learning GTA
shruti.shukla@glasgow.ac.uk

Rohit Rao

Peer Learning GTA
rohit.rao@glasgow.ac.uk

Dr Erin McNulty

Peer Learning Tutor
erin.mcnulty@glasgow.ac.uk

Kavya Srinivasan

Peer Learning Intern
kavya.srinivasan@glasgow.ac.uk 

FAQs

  • What subjects are covered and how do I join a PAL session?

    Peer learning is available in many subjects across the University. This link shows you the peer support programmes we have already supported. If you’re interested in joining an existing scheme, please fill out this form and we’ll put you in touch with the relevant Peer leader or mentor so you know when and where the group next plans to meet.

  • Can I get involved if there isn’t a peer support programme already running in my course?

    Yes! The list of programmes is always changing with each new cohort of students, so we’re always on the lookout to start new initiatives and support new Peer leaders and mentors. If you feel like your course needs peer support, please reach out to the Peer Learning Team at robert.imbur@glasgow.ac.uk.

  • Do I need to prepare for Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) sessions?

    Sessions are informal and student-led, so it’s up to you as to how much preparation to do. We find that the most effective peer sessions are ones in which students have agreed beforehand on a set of questions or material to discuss or work on ahead of each session. Peer learning sessions work best if everyone is preparing and contributing roughly equally. The PAL leader will usually distribute the plan for each session in advance, so please do get in touch with team if you would like their contact details.

  • Can I be both a mentee and a mentor?

    Yes. Many students start as mentees and go on to become mentors or PAL leaders later in their degree.

  • How are mentors or PAL leaders trained?

    All leaders complete a 3 hour long training programme run by the peer learning team, covering facilitation, communication, session planning, and inclusive support practices.

  • Is peer learning the same as tutoring?

    Not quite. Peer learning is student-led and collaborative, not instructor-led. Leaders facilitate discussion and group work but don’t teach or grade.

  • Will being a mentor or PAL leader help my CV?

    Definitely. Communication, organisation, and facilitation skills gained through peer learning are highly valued by employers. We can help you gain formal accreditation for your contributions to peer learning or mentoring on your HEAR (Higher Education Achievement Report), by completing a certain number of requirements. More details about HEAR recognition can be found on this Moodle for Peer leaders and mentors.

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