The Peer Training programme, using interactive activities, discussion groups, simulations, visualisations, role plays, and other forms of intercultural learning techniques, educates youth leaders to discuss issues related to prejudice and discrimination, to lead workshops that challenge stereotypes, and to become activists against exclusion with their youth organisations and schools. Peer training provides a forum for young people to speak honestly about issues that concern them, to explore solutions and new ways of doing things, and to better articulate their points of view to authority figures. Participants in peer training workshops are empowered by the support and credibility given to youth leaders in the school environment.
The method of peer training is based upon the belief that young people deliver a message to their peers that is often more credible and efficient than when it is delivered by authority figures. Peer training methods have been used by many over the years - from those upholding theories of Aristotle - to joint educational systems, which were very popular in Europe in the 18th century.
A peer group is defined as any collective unit in which the members share some common characteristics, such as age or ethnicity. It most commonly refers to age groups in general, but more specifically to adolescent groups where members are bound closely together by youth culture.
Peer group education enables youth to effectively deal with problems that affect them. The process can be partly social; thereby establishing forums for young people to explore new frontiers; helping to solve problems; and letting people in positions of authority gain a better understanding of the point of view of youth.
Youth are ready-made experts. They have a unique perspective on the issues that affect youth and can often "make things happen."
As role models to their peer group, youth have the potential to demonstrate effective communication styles and approaches. This may be accomplished through workshops and games, music and mass media, discussion or story telling.
Where resources are limited and large numbers of people have to be reached, peer group education has a multiplier effect. Such programmes also have an informal cascade effect, creating "buzz" in a local community.
If encouraged and supported, youth can control the process of education and information exchange. Whether or not this occurs depends upon the setting in which a programme is operating. Peer group education can help to foster youth participation in programmes of formal and informal education.
EPTO’s programmes are based upon the methods and materials of the Anti-Defamation League / A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE Institute® follow a carefully developed structure: interactive activities, role-plays and simulations, individual reflection, and small and large group discussions. The concepts addressed cover a broad range of issues facing youth today including personal identity, stereotyping, exclusion and discrimination, prejudice and hatred, and skills for communication in a diverse society.
Workshops can have up to 30 participants and range from primary school children to secondary and university students and youth movement representatives.
