Peer learning: learning without classrooms, lectures
WAP deploys peer learning programs inside orgnizations, to help people find personal or group directions, learn from a peer group or from one peer.
In December 2017, we organized a peer learning program for finding student’s career path at emlyon business school. The learning objective is “ Define the job that motivates us” — it is a peer learning program 98 students from 5 different promotions joined this big 2-night event.
A class without tables
We set the learning space in cafeteria and gymnasium instead of traditional classroom. In our 3 year experience of facilitation, best peer learning sessions always happen in open spaces: parks, coworking spaces, fablabs, cafes, libraries… In open spaces, you can gather a big and diverse group, and have lively atmosphere.
We removed all the tables to maximize human interaction. In a traditional classroom, you usually are facing a big screen, or the computer screen in front of you. Here you don’t need tables: the learning material is all around you, alive!
Sit in circles
The basic element in a WAP session is group. With this format, we manage to keep genuine human connection even with 1000 participants.
We put students in random groups in circles. The space disposition garantes an caring and equal comes naturally. We had 14 beautiful circles all over the space.
How does it feel ?
Clement participated to WAP program in December 2017. He wrote this after the experience:
The first email I received introducing WAP was a bit intriguing. What is this learning methodology based on experience sharing?
I felt comfortable and in trust with these people I met for the first time, because the format of the course enabled it. We were all in the same state of mind, opening pathways to introspection without being judgmental. Actually this state of mind cannot be replicated out of this course I think; I met my peers outside, and we were clearly different towards each other, back in our student’s shoes like we don’t belong to the same groups so we don’t discuss much.
This is only one of hundreds of thrilling testimonials we have received in 3 years of peer learning programs. See more testimonials
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WAP has developed a unique method over 3 years with nearly 3000 participants, 44 organizations and communities. The learning experience is described by participants as “truly pedagogical new” “life-changing”.
Talk to us: team@wearepeers.com