Assessment of group-work projects: Utilisation and
evaluation of computer-based peer evaluations

Students enrolled in the Medical Radiations Project, a unit of study within the School of Medical Radiation Sciences, University of Sydney, are graded on group assessments. Peer evaluation of each group member's contribution to the project is used to determine the individual's assessment. A computer-based tool was originally developed and implemented in 2003 for the purposes of peer evaluation. In 2004 this tool was further developed, trialed and evaluated within this unit. Students were asked to rank their peers by using a web form on the internet which contained twelve criteria and one holistic question. The data was imported into a spread sheet and mean student scores were calculated. Students who were deemed on average to have not made a satisfactory contribution received an adjusted group assessment score. After submission of the group assessments students were surveyed. The results included an overall positive response to the principle and process of peer evaluation and the use of the computer-based tool. The positive outcome of this survey has encouraged the further use of this method of peer evaluation in other units of study within the School.