The Dynamics of Blog Peer Feedback In ESL Classroom

Abstract

Over the past decade aspects pertinent to the area of feedback have been extensively explored by researchers. While some of the studies show positive effects of peer review, others discuss its problematic areas. In spite of the controversies the new ways of integrating peer feedback in ESL classrooms are being explored. Researchers show an interest in looking into the possibilities of integrating Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in providing feedback to students. This paper discusses students’ experience of receiving and providing peer feedback using blogs that was integrated into a Life Sciences classroom in a private university in Malaysia in the year 2010. While carrying out the research, qualitative research methods were employed. Data were mainly gathered through interviews, peer feedback questionnaire and students’ writings posted to their blogs. Students used their blogs as an online portfolio, where they shared their experiences and posted writing assignments based on lessons and discussions. The findings and discussion of this paper may assist practitioners in implementing blog peer feedback process and designing suitable activities for use in ESL classrooms.