Involving Students in Assessment

Abstract

The importance of assessment and the centrality of students within the process are emphasised. The changing role of the student is discussed and a number of suggestions made on how to involve learners productively by means of self, peer or collaborative assessment. Studies of self assessment are reviewed and the role of psychology explored. Similarly, peer assessment studies are reviewed and key variables identified. It is noted that the benefits of involving students go beyond their ability to produce marks which resemble those awarded by teachers. Stages in the process of implementing and evaluating a self or peer assessment study are elaborated. Frequently encountered problems in practice are identified and some ways of dealing with these suggested. Some wider issues are discussed: quality, education versus. training, and working in groups. The need for further research is emphasised.