Peer evaluation of individual effort in student group work

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To assess the feasibility of using a method of peer assessment of individualized effort during group work and to validate it. DESIGN, SETTING AND METHODS: At the end of a module during the 2nd year, 12 groups of medical students (consisting of 13-14 students per group) made a presentation. Foilowing the presentation, the students assessed the contribution of each of their colleagues towards the presentation by using a rating form. This form listed the members of the group and consisted of a global assessment of each student's contribution to group work as well as assessment of contribution in eight different ways. An individualized mark was calculated for each student by summarizing the scores assigned to him/ her by other group members. Each student was given their personal mark and was asked for their reaction. RESULTS: Peer assessment marks were available for all 164 students. Nineteen (11.6%) students had got less than 50 marks. Though 11 of these students were not satisfied with their mark, 12 (63%) accepted that the mark reflected their contribution. Among those who had scored 50 or more marks, 87% were satisfied with their marks and 88% stated that the marks reflected their contribution to group work. CONCLUSION: The second year medical students taking part in this study were prepared to assess their peers and most of them were satisfied with the marks allocated by their peers. Over 60% of those who scored less than 50 marks accepted that their mark was a fair reflection of their contribution to group work.