Functions of a Peer Educator
Guidelines to the Functions of a Peer Educator
Be aware that being a Peer Educator changes an individual over time.
Remember that as a Peer Educator your peers are observing you in the capacity of a role model, so one needs to be careful in the information that are given out in dealing with your peers.
As a Peer Educator one has to be personally open to change and growth.
Know who you are, what yours values and deals are and how they affect you as an individual. Personal identity is very important.
Understand the importance of challenging the norms and accustomed behavior. This is important as individuals, as young people and finally as an educator.
Be non-judgmental and keep information received from others confidential. Always remember to be objective.
Always remember to listen between the lines, since the stated problem may not be the problem being experiences by the individual.
(NB)
1. Do not argue, verbally or otherwise.
2. Do not give advice; give only the facts and information.
3. Finally, do not take responsibility for other people’s problems. (This will only result in personal stress and overkill) Role of the Peer Educator
Acquire and share accurate information about the health or social issue.
Facilitate discussions on attitudes and values that youth participants have an education
Develop communication and group working skills
Engage participants in working towards strategies in the delay of sexual initiative partner reduction, self efficacy on the use of condoms, better health seeking behavior etc….
Acquire the skills to facilitate a range of interactive methodologies to be used in the conduct of sessions with peers.
Understand the use of effective networking, support and referral systems as tools in their arsenal.
Understand your power of influence, that is, your ability to influence another person’s ideas through your suggestions and ideas.
Understand when to refer persons to counselors or people who may be better able to assist
Be aware that being a Peer Educator changes an individual over time.
Remember that as a Peer Educator your peers are observing you in the capacity of a role model, so one needs to be careful in the information that are given out in dealing with your peers.
As a Peer Educator one has to be personally open to change and growth.
Know who you are, what yours values and deals are and how they affect you as an individual. Personal identity is very important.
Understand the importance of challenging the norms and accustomed behavior. This is important as individuals, as young people and finally as an educator.
Be non-judgmental and keep information received from others confidential. Always remember to be objective.
Always remember to listen between the lines, since the stated problem may not be the problem being experiences by the individual.
(NB)
1. Do not argue, verbally or otherwise.
2. Do not give advice; give only the facts and information.
3. Finally, do not take responsibility for other people’s problems. (This will only result in personal stress and overkill) Role of the Peer Educator
Acquire and share accurate information about the health or social issue.
Facilitate discussions on attitudes and values that youth participants have an education
Develop communication and group working skills
Engage participants in working towards strategies in the delay of sexual initiative partner reduction, self efficacy on the use of condoms, better health seeking behavior etc….
Acquire the skills to facilitate a range of interactive methodologies to be used in the conduct of sessions with peers.
Understand the use of effective networking, support and referral systems as tools in their arsenal.
Understand your power of influence, that is, your ability to influence another person’s ideas through your suggestions and ideas.
Understand when to refer persons to counselors or people who may be better able to assist