How do you use technology to support peer review in writing?

1 Online platforms

One of the first steps to use technology for peer review is to choose an online platform that suits your needs and preferences. There are various options available, such as Google Docs, Microsoft Word Online, Canvas, Turnitin, or Peergrade. These platforms allow you to upload, share, and edit documents online, as well as assign reviewers, set deadlines, and provide feedback. Depending on the platform, you can also use features such as comments, suggestions, track changes, annotations, or voice notes to enhance the peer review process. You should consider the accessibility, usability, and compatibility of the platform for you and your students, as well as the privacy and security issues.

2 Rubrics and guidelines

Another way to use technology for peer review is to create and share rubrics and guidelines that clarify the expectations and criteria for the writing task and the feedback process. You can use online tools such as Rubistar, iRubric, or Google Forms to design and customize your own rubrics, or use existing ones from online repositories or databases. You can also use online resources such as Purdue OWL, Writing Center, or Grammarly to provide guidelines and tips for writing and reviewing different types of texts, genres, and formats. By providing rubrics and guidelines, you can help your students focus on the relevant aspects of the writing, give specific and constructive feedback, and evaluate their own and others' work.

3 Communication and collaboration

A third way to use technology for peer review is to facilitate communication and collaboration among your students during the peer review process. You can use online tools such as Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, or Padlet to create virtual spaces where your students can meet, discuss, and exchange ideas and feedback. You can also use online tools such as Google Slides, Prezi, or Canva to create presentations or posters that showcase your students' work and feedback. These tools can help you create a sense of community and interaction among your students, as well as foster their critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills.

4 Progress and quality

A fourth way to use technology for peer review is to monitor the progress and quality of the writing and feedback process. You can use online tools such as Google Forms, SurveyMonkey, or Kahoot to create and administer surveys or quizzes that measure your students' satisfaction, learning outcomes, or challenges with the peer review process. You can also use online tools such as Google Analytics, Canvas Analytics, or Turnitin Feedback Studio to track and analyze data such as submission rates, revision rates, feedback quality, or plagiarism detection. These tools can help you evaluate the effectiveness and impact of the peer review process, as well as identify areas for improvement or intervention.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?