PEER Training: Building successful collaborative problem-Solving Skills in Adolescents

Abstract

This paper presents a PEER training program aimed at building and strengthening collaboration and problem-solving skills among adolescents. The program is integral to the PEERSolvers project (https://peersolvers.f.bg.ac.rs) and follows the PEER model designed to enhance successful collaboration among adolescents. The training includes the four main segments of the PEER model. The first segment focuses on formulating and establishing rules for constructive dialogue and exchange (E) of ideas.The second involves recognising and respecting personality (P) and individual differences in teamwork. The third addresses skills of emotional intelligence (E), promoting the importance of proper recognition, understanding and regulation of emotions during collaboration. Finally, the fourth part of the training deals with team member’s ability to use external resources (R), primarily digital data sources, to scaffold problem-solving. Each segment is a three-hour block, with an introductory and concluding session and includes a series of group exercises and interactive tasks. The conceptualisation of the training in accordance with the PEER model offers a novel and comprehensive approach to collaborative problem-solving aimed to equip both researchers and teachers with evidence-based tools for enhancing students’ collaborative problem-solving skills. The training was carried out in six Belgrade high schools (3 grammar schools and three vocational schools), involving approximately 21 second-year students per school. Trainer experiences confirm that the training can be conducted successfully according to the planned scenario. Also, the trainees found the training relevant and felt confident enough to engage in it.