Wiki| Canvas-Using Peer Review in Discussion-Students
Table of Contents
Overview
Peer review in Canvas discussions helps you learn by engaging with your classmates’ ideas, not just your own. It gives you the chance to receive feedback and improve your thinking while also helping others grow. When done thoughtfully, it strengthens your understanding and communication skills.
Why You Should Use Peer Review
Helps you understand course material more deeply by analyzing others’ work
Improves your ability to give and receive constructive feedback
Exposes you to different viewpoints and ideas
Strengthens critical thinking and writing skills
Prepares you for real-world collaboration and evaluation
How to Participate in Peer Review in Canvas Discussions
Open Your Course
Log in to Canvas LMS
Select your course from the dashboard
Navigate to Discussions
Click on “Discussions” in the course menu
Select the assigned discussion topic
Some discussions may be inside Modules instead of the main Discussions tab—check both if needed.
Complete Your Initial Post
Write Your Response and submit
Click “Reply” under the discussion prompt
Type your response in the text editor
Write and click “Post Reply” to submit
If you don’t submit your post first, you may not be able to see others’ responses (depending on instructor settings).
Review Your Classmates’ Posts
Read Before Responding
Browse through your classmates’ posts
Select the required number of peers to review (as instructed)
Choose posts that give you something meaningful to respond to, not just the shortest ones.
Provide Constructive Feedback
Write Meaningful Responses
Reply directly to your peers’ posts
Include:
One strength you noticed
One suggestion for improvement
A question or idea to extend the discussion
Avoid comments like “I agree” or “Good job” without explanation—they don’t add value.
Engage in Follow-Up Discussion
Respond to Replies
Check if classmates respond to your feedback
Continue the conversation where appropriate
Review Feedback on Your Own Post
Reflect and Improve
Read the comments your peers leave on your post
Consider how you can improve your ideas or approach
Don’t ignore feedback—even critical comments can help you grow.
Meet All Requirements
Check Expectations
Ensure you’ve completed:
Your initial postThe required number of peer responsesAny follow-up replies
Review the rubric (if provided) to understand how your work will be evaluated.