For which purposes it is used

By assessing each other’s work, learners gain a better understanding of the learning objectives and applicable measurement criteria.

This assessment technique is very useful in engaging learners’ active participation in the learning and assessment process, thereby also empowering them to take responsibility for and manage their own learning. In this sense, some research shows that learners make greater progress when they are actively involved in their own learning and assessment.

In addition, this can translate into an improvement in:

• their levels of self-confidence and self-esteem;
• their ability to critically reflect and produce constructive criticism;
• improve students’ oral and writing skills.

Peer assessment can also be an ideal activity, in addition to evaluating the results of a given activity, to encourage collaborative peer-learning processes by sharing experiences and opinions among the students themselves.