Comparing the Use of Self and Peer Assessment: A Case Study in a Statistics Course

Abstract

In this study, we compare the assessments made by self, peer and instructor in a statistics course. The goal is to investigate the following two questions: (1) Is it reasonable or fair to expect students to be responsible for assessing the work of their colleagues and themselves? (2) What are students' opinions about the learning effect after they participate in the assessment process? As part of the study investigating these questions, we designed a prototype for a Web-based assessment tool and a procedure to apply the assessment techniques in a statistics course. In addition, we collected and analyzed the data produced in the assessment processes from students and the instructor. The analysis results are summarized as follows: First, self assessment was not accord with instructor assessment, but peer assessment was similar to the assessment by instructor. This result reflected that it is reasonable or fair to expect students to be responsible for assessing the work of their colleagues. Second, peer assessment of their colleagues successfully helped students increase their understanding of the course, and the students increased their skills in the actual assessment process by assessing the work of their colleagues. Finally, many students indicated a high interest level on the assessments.