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Heterogeneous effects of peer tutoring: Evidence from rural Chinese middle schools

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  • Song, Yang
  • Loewenstein, George
  • Shi, Yaojiang

Abstract

Peer tutoring is a well-known type of peer-assisted learning, which has proven to be a cost-effective intervention. We designed a peer tutoring program that matches high-performing students as tutors to their low-performing classmates and provides non-monetary incentives for them to study together and improve the pair’s academic performance. We implemented the program and tested the effects in rural Chinese middle schools. The program significantly improved the tutors’ math scores and produced other benefits regarding study attitude and social behaviors. However, the program did not improve the tutees’ math scores and instead augmented their learning stress. The most compelling explanation is that the set-up of the program brought to light the tutees’ standing, by design, in the bottom half of their class.

Suggested Citation

  • Song, Yang & Loewenstein, George & Shi, Yaojiang, 2018. "Heterogeneous effects of peer tutoring: Evidence from rural Chinese middle schools," Research in Economics, Elsevier, vol. 72(1), pages 33-48.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:reecon:v:72:y:2018:i:1:p:33-48
    DOI: 10.1016/j.rie.2017.05.002
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    Cited by:

    1. Min, Shi & Yuan, Zhouhang & Wang, Xiaobing & Hou, Lingling, 2019. "Do peer effects influence the academic performance of rural students at private migrant schools in China?," China Economic Review, Elsevier, vol. 54(C), pages 418-433.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Peer tutoring; Group incentive; Heterogeneous effects; Mental health; Learning stress;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education
    • I24 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Education and Inequality
    • I25 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Education and Economic Development

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