Enhancing the Quality of Essays Through a Student Peer-Review Process

Abstract

Peer review and peer feedback is a mechanism that can have a positive effect on the quality of assignment essays. Reviewers need an education on what is a good review and how to conduct a review. A peer review process was implemented at a fourth-year information and cyber security module. The process did not result in any significant higher quality essays. This study evaluates the process as well as the results to determine what lessons can be learned from the process. The study highlights the importance of a strong correlation between the mark rubric and the list of identified characteristics of a good essay. The study strengthens the fact that student reviewers need to be educated in the review process and review aspects.