We want to foster and evaluate a new hybrid peer tutoring approach in Biosciences that will build on the strengths of previously reported systems (tutorials, supervisions, peer assisted learning (PAL)) while remaining cost effective. ‘Coaching Networks’ will be set up in the department which will use a mixture of staff, PhD students and undergraduate students, meeting both face-to-face and via a network of Facebook pages.

The main aims and benefits to students will be:

1. To increase formative feedback
2. To increase contact hours
3. To create a culture of peer learning
4. To maintain value for money
   

Each fortnight students will prepare a short piece of work in the form of a video presentation, short essay or poster. Students given the role of ‘Feedbacker’ will then give instant online feedback on their peers work via Facebook group pages. At the following fortnightly meeting PhD student Network Leaders will give further oral feedback on the work which will be discussed by the group. At the end of the meeting new group roles and topics will be allocated for the next meeting.
Evaluation of the project will be focused on 4 areas:

1. Feedback from undergraduate students
2. Focus groups with PhD students
3. Attendance monitoring
4. Monitoring of Facebook uploads
   

This approach will dramatically increase the level of formative feedback and contact time students receive (while remaining cost effective in the current economic climate) and as such should be of relevance to all institutions that share our educational aims.