Recently, I published a post on The Report about issues with peer-assessed assignments. While the article discussed problems such as cheating and delays, it did not go into detail about how to write assignments.

If your course includes peer-assessed assignments, here is a handy checklist:

• Allow plenty of time to finish. You may want to read the assignment instructions as soon as you start the course, so you can think about it as you work through the course materials
• Read the instructions carefully
• Research as necessary. You may need to refer to course materials as well as internet searches or library books
• Make notes of all sources you used (URLs, book titles, authors and page numbers, course lecture name/number, video timestamp, etc.) so that you can refer back if necessary and so your assessors can find the references if they want to
• Write your assignment, including all relevant references
• If asked to format the assignment or references in a particular way, follow the instructions
• Re-read the instructions and your assignment to make sure you have answered all aspects. If not, revise your answer
• Edit and proofread your assignment, preferably a day or more after writing. This will help your brain to more easily pick up typos and clumsy writing
• Submit your assignment by the required date
• Assess the minimum number of assignments, and more if you have time. Most providers allow you to assess more than the minimum, which will reduce the waiting time for others
• Refer to the instructions as you assess and award the relevant points
• If space is provided for comments, use it! Your fellow learners will appreciate it if you give encouragement and reasons for the grades you awarded, particularly if you did not give the maximum points
• If you suspect plagiarism or another issue such as a blank assignment, report it to the provider.

For more details, you can see my posts from 2017, when I wrote about preparing, writing and assessing essays.

Because many online courses are in English, you may want to improve your English grammar or writing. These posts might be useful:
How to Learn English Online
90 Free Online Courses to Improve Your Writing Skills

A Final Thought

While peer assessments can be time-consuming and challenging, they can also be enjoyable and an excellent way to learn.

By Pat Bowden, published March 23, 2021.