Bringing Out-of-School Learning into the Classroom: Self- versus Peer-Monitoring of Learning Behaviour

authored by
Yelva C. Larsen, Jorge Groß, Franz X. Bogner
Abstract

Based on classroom management fostering autonomy support and intrinsic motivation, this study examines effects of reciprocal peer-monitoring of learning behaviours on cognitive and affective outcomes. Within our study, 470 German secondary school students between 13 and 16 years of age participated in a multimodal hands- and minds-on exhibition focusing on renewable resources. Three groups were separated and monitored via a pre-post-follow up questionnaire: the first conducted peer-monitoring with the performance of specific roles to manage students’ learning behaviours, the second accomplished a self-monitoring strategy, while the third group did not visit the exhibition. In contrast to the latter control group, both treatment groups produced a high increase in short- and long-term knowledge achievement. The peer-monitored group scored higher in cognitive learning outcomes than the self-monitored group did. Interestingly, the perceived level of choice did not differ between both treatment groups, whereas peer-monitoring increased students’ perceived competence and simultaneously reduced the perceived level of anxiety and boredom. Peer-monitoring realised with the performance of specific roles seems to keep students “on task” without lowering indicators for students’ intrinsic motivation. Herewith, we are amongst the first to suggest peer-monitoring as a semi-formal learning approach to balance between teacher-controlled instruction and free-choice exploration.

External Organisation(s)
University of Bamberg
Type
Article
Journal
Education Sciences
Volume
10
Pages
1-18
No. of pages
18
ISSN
2227-7102
Publication date
16.10.2020
Publication status
Published
Peer reviewed
Yes
ASJC Scopus subject areas
Computer Science (miscellaneous), Education, Developmental and Educational Psychology, Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation, Computer Science Applications, Public Administration
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy
Electronic version(s)
https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci10100284 (Access: Open)