Students' perceptions toward essential functionalities and qualities of peer code assessment tools

Abstract

Peer code assessment (PCA) empowers computer science students, enhancing their learning and equipping them with practical skills for industry work. However, instructors often face a scarcity of well-designed tools customized for the learning environment. Additionally, there is a knowledge gap concerning the latest generation of peer assessment tools. So, the question is, how could a PCA tool be designed to support students’ programming learning experience? A case study was conducted using the PeerGrade tool, employing interviews and observation as data generation methods to answer this question. Research aimed to identify features that enhance student learning and uncover essential qualities of peer code assessment tools from students’ perspectives. Informants considered inline comments, general comments, rubrics, threads, and Code editor functionalities essential. They also highlighted the importance of utilizing a customized, user-friendly tool with a step-by-step process. The Self-Regulated Learning conceptual theory has been used as a theoretical lens. Based on SRL, it has been found that implementing identified tool qualities and features will improve the learning experience by increasing students’ motivation and enabling them to follow their learning strategies. The findings can be used as a design principle for developing peer code assessment tools.