Online peer feedback in second language Chinese writing

Abstract

Abstract Online peer feedback is advocated but not sufficiently used or researched in language classrooms, especially in Chinese as a foreign language (CFL) context. There is not sufficient evidence on the relationship of peer feedback type and revision, and controversies remain regarding learners’ perceptions of peer feedback, especially in terms of its trustworthiness. This study examines the typology, uptake, and learner perceptions of online peer feedback in an advanced level CFL classroom. Participants’ first drafts, feedback, and revisions in four writing assignments were analyzed and interviews were conducted. Feedback was mostly given on vocabulary, grammar, and character. 70.9% of the corrective feedback led to successful revision, and direct change, suggestion, and clarification most frequently led to revision. Participants generally trusted peer feedback, while they were also autonomous in giving feedback and deciding on uptakes. Learners’ positive perceptions include the comprehensibility of peer feedback and a sense of supportive community.