Enhancing assessment literacies through development of quality rubrics using a triad based peer review process

Abstract

Peer review is viewed as a valid quality assurance mechanism in higher education. Peer review of teaching is common practice at universities in Australia. However, peer review of assessment is a relatively new innovation in tertiary education. Peer review of assessment in a Triad structure utilised data, via interviews with academics and students, to develop a peer review of assessment framework. This project was modelled on a Triad based peer review of teaching process at a major university in Brisbane Australia. A 10 question framework was used initially to facilitate conversations between assessors in a range of undergraduate courses (teacher education, business, visual arts, occupational therapy, outdoor education). The benefits for all stakeholders were widespread and significant, impacting students and assessors and provided a response to sector wide, national and international criticisms of tertiary assessment by students, who are driven by successful assessment experiences and shaped by the clarity of assessment rubrics.