Peer Learning Method in Health Sciences: Cases of Students at the Higher Institute of Medical Techniques of Lubumbashi in Dr. Congo

Introduction: Peer learning is an asset that contributes to improving the acquisition of knowledge and skills development among students of the Higher Institute of Medical Techniques of Lubumbashi based on the experiences of peers. The objective of this study is to evaluate the usefulness of peer learning on the behavior of students at the Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales in Lubumbashi, DR Congo. Method: We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study with analytical purposes during a period from April 17 to July 26, 2024 using the strata sampling technique on an entire sample of 469 students, 141 of whom were male and 328 were female. Results: At the end of the surveys, we noted that thanks to this peer learning method, the students had to develop skills based on the expertise of their colleagues, this is revealed in Bac2 (67.5%); Bac3 (85.7%); L1 (92.7%) and L2 (88.2%). In addition, the strengthening of reasoning ability through this learning is affirmed in Bac2 (71.4%); Bac3 (97.9%); L1 (97.6%) and L2 (76.5%). Conclusion: The peer learning method values the learner, making him or her the master of his or her learning; it stimulates students to exchange knowledge and to be able to develop skills based on the experiences of others to increase their performance. Thus, students are invited to be aware of this to avoid any distracting effects and demotivating factors towards their colleagues.