Peeragogy Handbook/Revised Intro

Welcome to the Peeragogy Handbook!


P e e r a g o g y is a collection of techniques for "collaborative learning" and "collaborative working".

By learning how to “work smart” together, we hope we can leave the world in a better state than it was when we arrived.

Indeed, humans have learned from each other forever. But for a long time — until the advent of the Web and widespread access to digital media — schools have had an effective monopoly on the business of learning. Now, with access to open educational resources and free or inexpensive communication platforms, groups of people can learn together outside as well as inside formal institutions. All of this prompted us to reconsider the meaning of peer learning.

The Peeragogy Handbook isn’t a normal book, it is an example of the kind of work that’s only just possible now. It is an evolving guide, and it tells a collaboratively written story: it’s one that you can help write. Using this book, you will develop new norms for the groups you work with, whether online, offline or both. Every section includes exercises and research methods that you can apply to build and sustain strong and exciting collaborations. When you read the book, you will get to know the authors, and you will see how we have applied these ideas: in classrooms, in research, in business, and more.

You’ll meet Julian, who put the ideas to work as one of the directors of a housing association; Roland, a professional journalist and change-maker; Charlie, a language teacher and writer who works with experimental media for fun and profit; and Charlotte, an indie publisher who wants to get better at what she does by helping others learn how to do it well too — as well as many other contributors from around the world.

The book focuses on techniques for building a strong group, organizing a learning space, doing cooperative work, and conducting effective peer assessment. These major sections are complemented by a catalog of design patterns, and notes on relevant technologies. The book is first and foremost a practical guide. It will change the way you think about getting things done. The following brief section is a guide to using the handbook itself; after that, we provide a succinct overview of the contents of the book which will help you begin thinking like a peeragogue. As you work through the chapters that follow, you will master these techniques. Once again, future editions can include your voice, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with comments or questions.

Sincerely, The Peeragogy Team