Peer mentoring in the academic settings: Best practices in implementation and evaluation

Abstract: Medical students are expected to undergo a rigorous and demanding medical curriculum, where they are expected to master a vast amount of knowledge that demands intense dedication and commitment. The objectives of the current article are to identify the utility of peer mentoring in academics, enlist different approaches in peer mentoring, enumerate ways in which peer mentoring can be evaluated, and propose best practices in successfully implementing peer mentoring in academics. As medical educators, it is our responsibility to employ a wide range of interactive and innovative teaching-learning methods to engage students in the learning process and make their lives less stressful. Peer mentoring in academics has a special place in facilitating the learning process among medical students, as it fosters collaborative learning where students can comprehend the complex topics with the help of explanations given by their peers and by participating in group discussions. In conclusion, peer mentoring plays a defining role in attainment of subject-specific competencies and learning goals. To enhance its effectiveness, it is essential to identify the potential challenges and implement a comprehensive strategy that supports student success.