Self assessment means the process of having the learners critically reflect upon, record the progress of and perhaps suggest grades for, their own learning. The term peer assessment refers to the process of having the learners critically reflect upon, and perhaps suggest grades for, the learning of their peers.
(Roberts,T. Self, peer, and group assessment in e-learning, Information Science, 2006)
On this page, we sometimes refer to self and peer assessment as self and peer review. Although used relatively interchangeably, assessment generally involves a quantiative element, whilst review is generally a more qualitative process. The tools discussed on this page are capable of both.
Self, peer, and group assessment in e-learning, Tim Roberts, 2006
In order to encourage effective participation, the rationale for using self or peer assessment should be explicit to everyone involved, particularly students.
Race, P.(2006) The lecturer’s toolkit – a practical guide to assessment, learning and teaching Routledge.
There are two main tools that can be used for online self and peer review: Blackboard and Turnitin. We have developed corresponding workflows for these tools: Bsp and Tsp. Choosing a workflow will depend on the particular requirements.
Feature | Blackboard | Turnitin |
---|---|---|
Submission method | Blackboard’s Self and Peer Assessment tool | Turnitin’s PeerMark tool |
Initial submission | File or quiz-like response | File (100mb size limit) |
Deadline flexibility | Strict submission deadlines | Some deadline flexibility |
Multiple peer reviews | Yes | Yes |
Self and/or peer review in any configuration | Yes | Yes |
Peer review allocation | Random allocation only | Random or students can choose |
Anonymous reviews | Yes | Yes |
Review types | Free response or numerical | Free response or scale |
Reviews can be graded by instructor | No | Yes |
Original submissions can be graded by instructor | No | Yes |
Model answers can be provided to reviewers | Yes | No, but can be provided through other means |
Once you have selected your workflow, use the guidance below to set up and run through the workflow in a test Blackboard course with a test student (How can I add a test student). It is essential to test before using real assessments, and this will also enable you to see the student perspective. Failure to test may result in lost submissions or feedback. To request a test course or if there are any issues with your test, please contact digital-education@bristol.ac.uk.
There are six guidance documents for each workflow. Select your workflow and then click on the icons to access the guidance documents.
Now you have tested your workflow you can implement it into your course. Follow the instructions in the guidance above just as you did for your test.
Tips for successful use of self and peer assessment
Once the process is complete, it may be useful to use a student voice activity (eg a survey) to gather opinions on how the process went. This can help inform future self- and peer-review activities.