ComPACT (Competency-Based Peer-Assisted Coaching and Tutoring): A Proposed Curricular Framework for Near-Peer Tutoring in Medical Education

Near-peer tutoring (NPT) programs greatly prepare tutors for future teaching roles. However, without a comprehensive curricular framework, institutions may not adequately track the knowledge and skills tutors gain from these programs. We propose a competency-based peer-assisted coaching and tutoring (ComPACT) framework that captures tutors’ progression as educators and supports their training through a community of practice. This framework leverages specialized teaching paths, digital micro-credentials, and a recognition system to track skill development. Overall, the ComPACT model is designed to create NPT programs that provide as much value to tutors as they do to the students they teach.