Using Graded Peer Evaluation To Improve Students Writing Skills, Critical Thinking Ability, And Comprehension Of Material In A Principles Of Public Relations Course

Abstract

This peer-evaluation assignment encouraged students to think critically, synthesize information and write about public relations course material rather than incorporate surface information into written assignments. Because peer reviewers can improve the grades on their final papers by offering concrete suggestions to the original authors, students tended to report that the peer-evaluation process improved their writing skills, critical thinking ability, and their understanding of public relations concepts and theories. This research demonstrates how peer evaluation can be a positive learning exercise that prompts students to develop higher-order cognitive skills and to improve their writing skills while learning discipline-specific course concepts.

An Integrated Approach for Development of Scientific Writing Skills in Undergraduate Organic Lab

“…Along with the scaffolded writing assignments, peer review was added. Peer review has been shown to increase critical thinking skills, and has been widely used as a tool to develop technical writing skills (10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15). In general, peer review requires students to provide critical and detailed responses.…”

A pilot project to encourage scientific debate in schools. Comics written and peer reviewed by young learners

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“…Moreover, Todd and Hudson (2007), while studying the efficacy of a peer evaluation assignment in a public relations course, reported This peer-evaluation assignment encouraged students to think critically, synthesize information and write about public relations course material rather than incorporate surface information into written assignments. Because peer reviewers can improve the grades on their final papers by offering concrete suggestions to the original authors, students tended to report that the peerevaluation process improved their writing skills, critical thinking ability, and their public relations concepts and theories.…”

“…Research has showed active student engagement in the learning process enhances knowledge acquisition and retention. Use of classroom strategies which encourage student involvement and interaction with one another can facilitate higher learning outcomes (Todd & Hudson, 2007).…”