Using Eli review as a strategy for feedback in online courses

Abstract

Eli Review is a web-based platform that was built by composition faculty for the primary purpose of scaffolding online peer feedback activities. Eli supports a very particular feedback strategy characterized by students completing frequent small writing assignments, participating in regular peer reviewing activities, and using the feedback received to generate revision plans. Faculty focus on scaffolding the activities, debriefing the entire class based on the peer feedback, and providing feedback to students on their feedback. In this review, I consider how Eli's interface and supporting materials reflect theories and assumptions about writing pedagogy and discuss how Eli shapes the feedback that students receive on their writing. I also discuss the possibilities and limitations, particularly in the context of online writing instruction (OWI), of Eli's approach to feedback.