Background of the study
The evolution of digital education has seen a rapid integration of online peer assessment into learning environments, with institutions in Jos South LGA increasingly adopting these methods to complement traditional evaluation techniques (Okoro, 2023). Online peer assessment allows students to engage with their peers’ work, offering critical feedback that not only enhances understanding but also fosters collaborative learning skills. This method is regarded as a transformative approach, as it empowers learners to take an active role in the assessment process while promoting critical thinking and reflective practices (Adebayo, 2023). Over the past few years, numerous studies have documented the benefits of peer assessment, emphasizing its potential to enhance academic performance and improve learning outcomes through interactive and iterative feedback cycles (Balogun, 2024). In Jos South LGA, factors such as improved internet connectivity and the gradual acceptance of digital technologies in education have provided a fertile ground for implementing online peer assessment strategies. The digital shift in educational practices has also raised questions about the reliability and fairness of peer evaluations compared to traditional methods, stimulating research on how these practices can be optimized for better learning outcomes (Eze, 2024). The integration of online peer assessment is further motivated by the need to prepare students for professional environments where collaborative evaluation and feedback are essential. This context is enhanced by the growing emphasis on lifelong learning and the development of soft skills, which are critical for the modern workforce (Ibrahim, 2023). Moreover, the approach provides an opportunity to reduce the grading burden on instructors, while simultaneously engaging students in a deeper learning process. Nonetheless, challenges such as varying levels of digital literacy, potential biases, and the need for robust rubrics remain areas of concern. Recent local initiatives have sought to standardize peer assessment criteria and train students in effective evaluative techniques, making the digital classroom an ideal setting for empirical research into these methods (Uche, 2024). In this dynamic educational landscape, the study will explore how online peer assessment influences learning outcomes, considering factors like student engagement, quality of feedback, and academic performance. The findings of this research could contribute to policy reforms and pedagogical practices that aim to harness technology for improved education delivery (Ogunleye, 2023).
Statement of the problem
Despite the growing interest in online peer assessment, there remains uncertainty regarding its actual impact on students’ learning outcomes in Jos South LGA. One major problem is the inconsistency in feedback quality, where some students may lack the skills necessary to evaluate their peers’ work objectively, leading to potential discrepancies in grades (Okoro, 2023). Additionally, there are concerns about the reliability of digital platforms used for assessments, as technical glitches and inadequate digital literacy may hinder the process and reduce its effectiveness (Adebayo, 2023). In many instances, students’ unfamiliarity with online assessment tools has led to challenges in providing constructive criticism, which may ultimately affect their academic progress. Furthermore, the absence of standardized assessment rubrics often results in subjective evaluations that do not accurately reflect a student’s true performance. This challenge is compounded by the diverse educational backgrounds and varying levels of prior exposure to digital assessment techniques among students (Balogun, 2024). Another concern is the potential for bias in peer assessments, where personal relationships or social dynamics may influence the objectivity of evaluations. The issue of accountability in the online environment also remains unresolved, as there is a lack of mechanisms to verify the authenticity of the feedback provided. Given these challenges, it is imperative to investigate the extent to which online peer assessment contributes to or detracts from the quality of learning outcomes. The study aims to identify gaps in the current practice, evaluate the effectiveness of existing frameworks, and recommend strategies for enhancing the reliability and fairness of online peer assessment. Addressing these problems is crucial for informing educators and policymakers on best practices that balance technological advancement with pedagogical integrity (Eze, 2024).
Objectives of the study
To evaluate the influence of online peer assessment on students’ learning outcomes.
To identify the challenges and benefits associated with online peer assessment.
To propose strategies for improving the effectiveness of digital peer evaluation methods.
Research questions
How does online peer assessment affect student performance in Jos South LGA?
What are the key challenges encountered by students during online peer assessments?
How can the quality of peer feedback be enhanced in digital assessment environments?
Research Hypotheses
Online peer assessment significantly improves students’ learning outcomes.
Students with higher digital literacy provide more constructive peer feedback.
The implementation of standardized rubrics enhances the reliability of online peer assessments.
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it provides insights into the effectiveness of online peer assessment in enhancing academic achievement and collaborative learning in Jos South LGA. The findings will offer practical recommendations to educators for improving digital assessment strategies and inform policymakers on integrating technology in education. Such insights will benefit students by fostering a more engaging and reflective learning environment while addressing challenges related to digital literacy and feedback quality (Ibrahim, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study
This study is limited to examining online peer assessment within the educational institutions in Jos South LGA. It focuses solely on its impact on students’ learning outcomes and does not consider external factors such as socioeconomic status or infrastructure variations.
Definitions of terms
Online Peer Assessment: A process where students evaluate each other’s work using digital platforms.
Learning Outcomes: Measurable educational results that indicate the level of knowledge or skills acquired.
Digital Literacy: The ability to effectively use digital tools and platforms for learning and communication.
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