PeerWise as a Vehicle for Uncertainty-resolution to Enhance Student Learning

Abstract

Previous studies of contributing student pedagogies (CSPs) have shown gains for students through increased summative grade and demonstration of deeper levels of learning. Resolution activities have been postulated by Draper (2009) as another way of enhancing students’ learning. In this paper, we show examples of learning occurring through resolution activities for students in higher education using PeerWise, a CSP tool, and we describe this as uncertainty-resolution that enhances learning. We then suggest a model through which this, and all learning in PeerWise, might take place. Finally, we anticipate that evidence of uncertainty-resolution will be seen in other PeerWise repositories; if this is so, we suggest that other educators using PeerWise should encourage and enhance their students’ learning by facilitating uncertainty-enhanced learning within PeerWise, and more broadly in other CSP activities.