Online Peer Tutoring in Online English Courses: Perceptions of Tutors and Tutees

Abstract

Peer tutoring is a commonly provided support service for students who encounter learning difficulties. The main purpose of this study is to discover both the tutors’ and tutees’ perceptions of challenges faced during the online tutoring program in English courses. In addition, the reasons for struggling students’ refusal to this service are also investigated to assist them in the next semesters, and to improve the quality of training as a whole. Email interviews were conducted to collect the qualitative data. Responses were then coded and the main themes were identified for the analysis. The findings reveal that both tutors and tutees have positive perceptions of online tutoring. Various challenges have been identified, and recommendations were offered. The results of this paper are valuable for not only the stakeholders in the studied institution but also for any educational institutions that are considering this student support service.