Abstract Evaluation of report-based assignments, especially in larger classes, adds a considerable marking load. Even with detailed rubrics, subjectivity may lead to grading variations and inaccuracies. Evaluation of others’ work can also be a very informative and educational experience, improving their skill through exposure to a broader performance range. Involving students in peer evaluation can potentially address both of these issues by reducing marking load, providing alternate (and increased number of) assessments, and by exposing students to a broader spectrum of report skills thus enhancing their own knowledge.
This paper discusses the results of an experiment in peer assessment and whether it can be exploited to reduce marking effort, improve accuracy for report assignment evaluation and improve student skill. The data was gathered from assignments in two different engineering classes: a second year course on safety and environmental stewardship, and a senior course on engineering economics.
For the second-year course, an individual essay assignment was marked by the instructor and two peers. The three evaluations were analyzed to assess the accuracy and assign a grade. For the senior course, a group report on a case study was self and peer evaluated. These evaluations were used to derive a grade for the report directly if the self and peer results were within a prescribed tolerance; other cases were resolved by instructor intervention. The results were analyzed considering the number of outliers, range of scores, and the number of cases which had to be resolved by theinstructor.
Parameters considered in assessing the results of the experiment included: the correlation between assessments, the learning opportunities for students, and instructor marking effort required. (preliminary analysis) Results suggest positive gains in reducing effort. Improved accuracy and enhanced student learning are also expected.
Engineering Economics Evaluation For Manufacturing Competitiveness : A case study.