Buddy system

Buddy systems lead to more inclusive learning environments. Students are paired up, and function as each other’s safety net, first contact, mentor, and guide.

Phase 1: SensitizingPreparation time: 10-30 minExecution time: Not applicableSynchronousAsynchronous

Buddy systems lead to more inclusive learning environments. Students are paired up, and function as each other’s safety net, first contact, mentor, and guide.

The way students are paired up depends on the goal. Second year students can pair up with first-years, or mobile students with Dutch students, or a complete mix.

Students report more sense of belonging and a general feeling of inclusion. This is not technically a classroom activity. The existence of such a system, however, can be used in classroom activities, for example asking students to do a certain assignment with their buddy.

Good practice International Office and Social Science.

Mixed Classroom phase?

Phase 1: Sensitizing

Mixed Classroom strategies?

Reduce anonymity

For which total group size?

More than one hundred
Between fifty and one hundred
Up to fifty
Up to twenty five

How to execute: Individual or in groups?

Small group (2-4 pers)

Best practice of a particular Faculty?

Fac. of Social Sciences

Reduce anonymityGetting to know each otherSharing knowledge (brainstorming, exchanging ideas)Up to twenty fiveUp to fiftyBetween fifty and one hundredMore than one hundredMore than three hundredSmall group (2-4 pers)OtherGeneral applicabilityOpen MindInterpersonal skillsOral communicationOwn reflexive attitude and responsibility in societyResponsible for own study career and study success