Kathleen:
Thank you for sharing these resources with us. As a supporter of peer evaluation, I always advise Instructors to provide the Rubrics. Whenever apporpriate, I encourage Instructors to provide Model answers in which they highlight which portions of the Model answer meet which criterion on the Rubric.
Satrohan
Critique is a valuable asspect of any learning whether it be an online or unground classroom. Online critique methods could be developed that would result in valid feedback for students. By establishing clear rubrics for crtique, students will be able to access one another students work by using industry standard measures of evaluation. To find out more about per-evaulation and critique methods search ebsco host or other simular online data bases. Many researchers are studying peer-evaluation, and you may find some ideas you can use to create an online critique method or two for your clases that will foster valuable per-evaluation.
Lois:
Your point is well taken. In the majority of programs with which I work, Instructors provide feedback while at the same time they adopt peer evaluation. Given a set of criteria unpon which the base peer evaluation, students have an opportunity to apply the key concepts upon which the assignment is based to reinforce their understanding of thse concepts as they engage in peer evaluation.
Satrohan
At times, without face to face body language it is difficult to determine the tone and intent of e-mails I get from coworkers.
Students critiquing another student on line may not be a positive learning experience.
When the instructor critiques me I know the information is coming from someone who wants me to succeed.
Annejeanette:
One may not be able to avoid critiquing during Chat sessions as the term can apply to evaluatung a response and offering your opinion or a fact. These kinds of critiques are not as structured as when students are required to evaluate each other's work based on a ste of criteria the Instructor provides; nevertheless, they do serve a very important purpose in maintaining momentum in Chat sessions.
Satrohan
I think that when working collaboratively for onliine projects, critiquing could be allowed. However for discussions on general topics related to the course utilizing the chat room, critiquing may be less plausible.
Corinne:
Establishing rules of conduct when paticipating in online learning and stating penalties for violations can go a far way to minimize undesirable behaviors. The same applies for participation in synchronous as well as asynchronous discussion forums; and peer evaluation driven by common evaluation Rubrics.
Satrohan
Rhonda:
I agree with you on all counts. I manage a team of Instructional Designers, and I always encourage them to engage in peer evaluation of the courses they develop.
Satrohan
I completely agree that critiquing, in any form or format, is an acquired art. My worry as an online instructor is that there will be sassy students, knowing they don't have to interact face to face with classmates, who delight in putting others down in the face of competition (which happens all to often in a regular classroom), will insult other students through forums.
Debra:
In order for any person to learn from what they have done there is a form of critiquing done. If not by themsleves by others.
We all improve and learn from our past experiences, sometimes it takes to long. Learning from others who are observing us will speed up the process.
As long as students know from day one that this is a part of the course I personal do not see a problem with it.
Gloria:
The rapid progression of a Chat session does not, in my opinion, lend itself well for peer evaluation. Asynchronous Discussion forums are better suited for peer evaluation.
Satrohan
Your position on the Instructor maintaining control fo these communication channels is well taken, Larry. We have also found it beneficial to share with students the rules governing communication through these channels (Netiquette.
Satrohan
I like chat rooms but not for students to critique each other.
The ability to constructively critique each other through chats and postings is an aquired art. These two tools are vital for the success of the online course, but they can have some negative consequences if the instructor looses control of the class. I believe it is appropriate for students to critique each other.
Christine:
agreed on all counts. Peer evaluation is one way to reinforce the knowledge and skills taught.
Satrohan
I agree. However, it is appropriate for students to critique each other especially if they are working on group projects. In our training, students submit transcripts that count as a major portion of their grade. On ground, we encourage them to proof each other's work before submitting their work. The same would apply for online students.
Debra:
Perhaps "critique" has a harsh connotation; nevertheless, I have seen many instructors use this term in their Syllabus and Assignments. When it is used, it implies peer-evaluation.
In Chat sessions, students may not to be able to remain non-judgmental.
Instructors can critique; however, there are some assignments in which the key rules, principles, etc can be reinforced within the student by repeatedly applying the criteria the Instructor uses to grade the Assignment.
Satrohan
