Peer Tutoring

Course: Operating System (BCS303)
Class: Third Semester, C Section
Faculty Name: Dr. Annie Sujith, Associate Professor, Dept. of CSE

An innovative teaching method was implemented in the Third Semester, C Section for the Operating
System course. This method involved peer tutoring to enhance students; understanding and problem-solving skills. The detailed structure of this method is outlined below.
1) Selection of Tutors
Twelve academically strong students were selected as tutors based on their performance in the university exams from the previous semester and the current semesters First Internal Assessment marks for the Operating System subject.
2) Distribution of Tutees
The remaining students in the class, referred to as tutees, were uniformly distributed among the 12 selected tutors to ensure balanced group sizes and effective tutoring sessions.
3) Group Activities and Topics
Each group was given a unique set of practice problems on important topics in Operating Systems, such as CPU Scheduling Algorithms, Deadlocks, Paging, Semaphores, Critical Section Problems, etc.

Example Activity:
During a session focused on Deadlocks, each group discussed subtopics such as safe state, safe sequence, need matrix, and Banker’s algorithm. The students then worked on solving problems related to Banker’s algorithm. Tutors facilitated discussions, assisted with problem-solving, and clarified doubts.
4) Role of Tutors
Each tutor was responsible for Monitoring their groups activities, Streamlining the assigned tasks, Assisting tutees with difficult topics, and Maintaining a session log report that included attendance and discussion topics. Tutors maintained a session log report provided by the faculty, which documented the attendance and topics discussed during each session.
5) Assignment Submission
Each student was required to submit a handwritten assignment at the end of the semester. This assignment included the numerical problems solved and the topics discussed during the tutoring sessions. The submission of this assignment contributed to the CIE marks as prescribed by the university.
This innovative teaching method aimed to enhance peer learning and collaboration, improve understanding of complex Operating System topics, and foster a supportive learning environment. The structured approach and involvement of peer tutors facilitated a deeper grasp of the subject matter, contributing positively to the students overall academic performance.