ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the potential value of peer support and learning which has been described as ‘gaining momentum as a global phenomenon’. It discusses a qualitative methodology has been utilised to explore nursing and midwifery students’ experience and perceptions of peer learning and support in practice. The need for nursing students to acquire enhanced leadership and supervision skills further reinforces the need for alternative pedagogies such as peer learning. The importance of effective staff-student relationships and student supervision are viewed as key in creating a positive learning environment. A. Christiansen and A. Bell reviewed the experience of students in the UK who reportedly engaged in peer relationships naturally in practice. The benefits of peer support to a junior student were highlighted particularly in relation to helping them settle into the placement and having someone to pose questions to. Peer learning approaches have been introduced widely in response to calls to improve student retention, engagement and success.
