How does peer discussion benefit reading comprehension?

Peer discussion significantly enhances reading comprehension by allowing students to articulate their individual understanding of the material. When students engage in discussions, they are prompted to express their thoughts, clarify their interpretations, and listen to different perspectives. This process not only reinforces their own understanding but also helps them consider alternative viewpoints, leading to a deeper comprehension of the text.

Articulating their ideas helps students organize their thoughts and make connections to the content, which facilitates retention and critical thinking. Additionally, discussing readings in a collaborative environment fosters an exchange of ideas that can lead to insights that a student might not have arrived at independently. This social aspect of learning encourages a more engaged and thoughtful approach to reading, ultimately improving comprehension skills.