The Use of Peer-Review

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Analytical Sciences Digital Library

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Peer review is desirable when implementing the theme-based approach. Using peer review, students can learn how to critically read and analyze draft manuscripts and make constructive comments. Peer review has also provided students with a different perspective on a project, which has led to a more unified understanding of the overall project. Since most students have not yet engaged in peer review, a guide is provided (Appendix J) to students which leads them through the process and give tips on what a successful review might look like. This document is used in many upper-level courses at Butler. Students evaluate and comment, but do not assign any kind of grade. Peer review is often a single blind process. The reviewer knows the author, but the author is not provided with the name of the reviewer. In a small class, however, the students usually figure it out.

At Butler University, peer review is only incorporated in the formal report writing process. However, peer review can be incorporated into multiple aspects of the project including formal written reports, poster preparation, group work skills, and oral presentations.