The Future of Feedback: Integrating Peer and Generative AI Reviews to Support Student Work

This early research project explores the integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in education to enhance feedback processes and improve learning experiences. The main goal of the study is to investigate the potential of generative AI for feedback, specifically in complementing peer feedback practices among graduate students enrolled at a US-based university during the 2023 academic term. Drawing on existing literature, the study examines the application of generative AI and its implications for feedback mechanisms. Employing an exploratory research design, the study gathers both quantitative and qualitative data through post-course surveys to address key research questions regarding the quality, usefulness, and actionability of peer and AI reviews, as well as their respective advantages and disadvantages. Findings indicate that peer reviews were consistently perceived slightly higher across all three dimensions compared to AI reviews, with thematic analysis revealing the unique strengths and limitations of each review type. This research underscores the importance of integrating human expertise with AI technology in feedback mechanisms, offering practical insights for educators, instructional designers, and policymakers seeking to enhance feedback experiences through emerging digital technologies.