Introduction

The Introduction commences with a definition of peer assessment. The nature of the likely readership is then explored. Reasons why the reader might be reading the book are then discussed. The key issue on the mind of many teachers – will it save time? – is then addressed. Then what is not peer assessment is reviewed, particularly with reference to peer review, peer feedback, and self-assessment. International vocabulary and its differences, especially between the US and the UK, are then explored. Finally, the reader is guided on how to use the book – which chapters to read and in what order. It is suggested that the first three chapters should be read in sequence, Chapter 6 on organization.