Peer Assessment that Works

A Guide for Teachers

By (author) Betty McDonald

Not available to order

Publication date:

25 November 2015

Length of book:

100 pages

Publisher

Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

ISBN-13: 9781475820928

In the real world a lot of activities require people to work in groups. Consciously or unconsciously each member assesses other members using their own predetermined criteria. Recognizing the significance of such assessment this book presents tried and tested ways of peer assessment that provide students with pleasant memorable experiences. Everyday challenges are addressed and possible solutions are offered. Drawing from over 40 years of academic experience in several different countries of the world, the author uses the many lessons learned to substantiate recommendations. Simple, straightforward yet groundbreaking techniques are employed to enhance peer assessment and improve its validity and reliability. Students learn to be more self-aware, productive, autonomous, collaborative and communicative. The strategies discussed in this book help both educators and students to manage and maintain trust. Shareware graphics used for mental stimulation and pictorial illustrations are intended to simplify explanations. This is the “go-to‟ book when you need help with peer assessment.

Dedication
Preface
List of Exhibits
Chapter 1: Nature of Peer Assessment
Introduction
What is assessment?
Nature of peer assessment
Importance of peer assessment
Role of facilitator in peer assessment
Role of the student in peer assessment
Role of significant others in peer assessment
Conclusion
Chapter 2: Learning from What Works
Introduction
Building trust
Creating buy-in
Teacher moderation
Learning outcomes match
Quantitative judgement by student
Cross checking
Conclusion

Chapter 3: Rubrics and More
Introduction
Rubrics
Developing rubrics
Qualitative judgement by group
Filling the gaps
Receiving therapy
Reflective activity and criteria selection
Examples of peer assessment in industry
Conclusion

To thrive in the 21^st Century, students need collaboration skills and practice using tools such as rubrics to provide objective feedback to their peers. In her well-illustrated book, Peer Assessment that Works: A Guide for Teachers, Dr. Betty McDonald, explains how progressive educators can build trust, create buy-in, match assessment content with learning outcomes, develop high quality rubrics, produce scores that lead to reliable decisions, and engage in constructive self-reflection to increase student learning. Best of all, she gives students choice and a voice in impacting their own learning and that of their peers. Congrats to Dr. McDonald for successfully tying theory and practice into a neat package that educators would find valuable.