Evaluation of student engagement with peer feedback based on student-generated MCQs

Abstract

In this paper, we describe the usage patterns found on four different modules and analyse the detailed outcomes of two case studies based around the usage of the PeerWise system which encourages students to create multiple choice questions (MCQs) for their peers and allows them to evaluate and write comments on MCQs written by their peers. The case studies evaluated data collected from using PeerWise with different student cohorts taking the same modules over two consecutive academic years. Between the years interventions were introduced to attempt to increase student engagement. It was noted that although increased levels of participation were observed in cohorts on different modules the authors are aware that other factors often can have a strong influence, including the awarding of marks for participation, the year of study and students perceived value. This evaluation seems to show that the early and specific interventions applied did have an influence on the pattern of student usage by increasing the student engagement with the PeerWise system.