Student Perception of Peer Review in the Digital Age

This study investigates students’ perception of peer review as an online learning activity specifically focused on essay writing in the context of upper secondary education. The research aims to provide insights into students’ understanding, experiences, and attitudes towards peer review. The study was conducted among first-year students in writing classes at a public institution in Brazil, in which students used RevisãoOnline, a specific tool to write and review essays. Participants were students who had written at least 2 essays and completed 4 reviews using the aforementioned tool, totaling 47 students. After engaging in writing and reviewing activities, these students were administered a questionnaire about their perception of the peer review process. Results showed that overall, students expressed positive perceptions regarding the value of giving and receiving feedback from their peers in essay writing activities. This may have been influenced by the use of RevisãoOnline, which provided step-by-step guidance during the review process, offering support and identifying areas for improvement in the reviewed essays. Students also reported a strong sense of comfort in both providing and receiving feedback. Regarding the incorporation of peer feedback by teachers in the evaluation process, a significant majority of students agreed with the approach. However, a notable percentage of students indicated the need for further exploration of the teacher's role in integrating peer feedback into their evaluation process.