Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Peer assessment can improve analytical skills in learners.
Research by NFER has concluded that taking part in peer assessment benefits children in many aspects of their learning.
The NFER conducted research into the role of peer assessment within overall Assessment for Learning strategies within 16 different Primary Schools. Peer assessment materials were trialled with over 1,000 children and followed up with interviews with the class teachers.
Children were given examples of a piece of work with an example of peer assessment next to it and were then asked to peer assess themselves on anonymous pieces of work. The children were given Literacy work from a booklet which they had worked on themselves and so were familiar with the tasks and the content. The research found that the children were able to accurately assess the work, recognising what was positive about the work. The area children found most difficult was being able to comment on ideas for improvement in a piece of work.
Interviews with the teachers revealed that through the course of the trial the children's analytical skills improved both in their peer assessments and in their work generally. One teacher commented: "I have noticed a more careful mode of observation ......the children did definitely show a move towards more helpful, analytical comments."
To read the report in full click here: