Tips and Exchange Structure for Fire Department Exchange Host Agency

Departments from across the country have begun to recognize the benefits of peer-to-peer exchanges. These exchanges promote the free flow of ideas and best practices between participants. Peer-to-peer learning uses guided conversation to promote the exchange of ideas between participants. While short presentations may be helpful to evoke thoughts, the principal learning tool is peer-to-peer conversation. The key to successful exchanges is common interests and prior planning. There is no set size for peer-to-peer exchanges, however, be mindful of the importance of participant engagement in conversations – keeping the group smaller helps facilitate increased participation. Below is a brief checklist for departments to consider when hosting their own peer-to-peer learning exchange.