Summary
PeerLearning.net provides a teaching practices approach to SEL and offers programming for grades 4-12. Two CASEL-approved evaluations demonstrate evidence of effectiveness in grades 6, 9-10 and 6, 8, 9, respectively. PeerLearning.net is a piece of software designed to support teachers with integrating principles of cooperative learning into their lessons. A student-facing interface guides groups of learners through lessons via a series of task, discussion, and reflection prompts. The online interface can be presented in English, Spanish, and Italian.
Strategies supporting educational equity (CASEL)
PeerLearning.net features strategies for youth action projects. The pedagogical model that the PeerLearning.net software fosters is rooted in student-centered group learning wherein students rotate through roles that promote practice with investigative research, leadership, and collaborative problem-solving.
Implementation
Below are key implementation details for this program. These specifications help determine if the program is a good fit for your school or organization.
Grade(s)
Elementary (K-5), Middle (6-8), High School (9-12)
Setting
Classroom, Schoolwide
Language
English, Spanish, Additional Languages
Cost
Pricing available through provider
# Lessons
For additional information please contact the provider
Program Design
Tier 1 (Universal)
Technology Requirements
For additional information please contact the provider
Staffing Requirements
For additional information please contact the provider
Professional Development
Onsite in-person, Virtual, Offsite, Train the Trainer
Outcomes
Improved SEL skills and attitudes
Reduced Emotional Distress
Improved Identity Development/ Agency
Improved Academic Performance
Reduced Problem Behavior
Improved School Climate
Improved School Connectedness
Improved Prosocial Behavior
Improved Teaching Practices
Improved SEL Skills and Attitude
Evidence of Effectiveness
Results from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted in the 2021-22 academic year (published in 2023) supported the effectiveness of PeerLearning.net for public school students. This evaluation included 720 students in grades 6, 9, and 10 in urban, suburban, and rural schools in the U.S. West region (70.7% white, 18% Hispanic/Latinx; >95% free or reduced-price lunch). The study found that students who participated in the program had significantly higher improvements in prosocial behavior, supportive peer relations, self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and decision making compared to students in the control group (outcomes reported 24 weeks after baseline) while controlling for outcome pretest, sex, grade level, and race/ethnicity.
Results from an RCT conducted in the 2021-22 academic year (published in 2024) supported the effectiveness of PeerLearning.net for public school students. This evaluation included 720 students in 6th, 8th, and 9th grade attending urban, suburban, and rural schools in the U.S. West region (70.7% white, 18% Hispanic/Latinx). The study found that students who participated in the program had higher positive peer relations, lower levels of victimization, and fewer emotional problems compared to students in the control group (outcomes reported 24 weeks after baseline) while controlling for outcome pretest, sex, grade level, and race/ethnicity.
Published Studies
Refer to the provided CASEL for the most up-to-date published studies.
Low, S., & Van Ryzin, M. J. (2023, October 30). Student-centered instruction can build social–emotional skills and peer relations: Findings from a cluster-randomized trial of technology-supported cooperative learning. School Psychology. Advance online publication.
Zagni, B., & Van Ryzin, M. J. (2024, January). Technology-supported cooperative learning as a universal mental health intervention in middle and high school. British Journal of Educational Psychology, accepted for publication.