Peer assessment in health professions education Elshami Wiam1,*, Abdalla Mohamed Elhassan2 1Assistant Professor, Dept. of Medical Diagnostic Imaging, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates 2Assistant Professor, Medical Education Unit, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates *Corresponding Author: Email: melsayed@sharjah.ac.ae
Online published on 27 November, 2018. Abstract Objectives The aim of this review is to appraise the available literature on peer assessment, its implementation, students’ perceptions and its strengths and limitations. Materials and Methods A search was prospectively designed to locate the literature relevant to achieving the aims of the review. A pilot review was conducted to ascertain the volume of literature. A wide range of closely related search terms was utilised and combined. Results Results of the review show that peer assessment is a valuable experience, and most students enjoy the peer assessment process. The mutual process of peer assessment has a positive impact on students’ learning; it allows students to evaluate themselves, comment on each other's work and develop more detailed knowledge. It motivates them to achieve better learning outcomes, promotes self-awareness and increases confidence. Students’ involvement in the assessment process supports their learning and encourages reflection. Peer assessment improves clinical performance, as it develops critical thinking and problemsolving skills, encourages self-assessment and promotes reflective practice. Conclusions Similar to all assessment methods, peer assessment has advantages and drawbacks. Concerns about the reliability and validity of peer assessment are raised in the literature. To overcome these drawbacks, authors recommend double marking by faculty members, multiple peer assessors, and clear grading criteria. Furthermore, providing written feedback rather than grades, as well as ensuring anonymity, are recommended in the peer assessment process to ensure a safe environment that can promote students’ comfort. Nevertheless, student support throughout the peer assessment process is important for proper implementation. Top Keywords Peer assessment, Peer assessment implementation, Assessment in health professions education. Top |