This reading had me hooked on the very first paragraph. It started with a humorous appeal- relaying the thought process of what some students would be thinking if they were assigned the task of reviewing another classmates’ writing work. Straub connected with the audience by writing about how some students are simply interested in “getting through the assignment” (136). Straub then shifts tone by speaking to those students who “want to do a good job”, are “willing to put in the time and effort”, and actually want to “help the writer look back on the paper and revise it” (136). He then goes on to give some tips about how one can go about giving comprehensive feedback on another student’s paper. I find his choice of wording really important when he says to give advice in a “constructive” way (137). “Constructive” is a key word here. The feedback that one gives on another person’s paper should at the end of the day lead the writer to better their work- no matter if the comments are of praise or of criticism. He continues later to say that “even when you’re tough and demanding you can still be supportive” (139). Groundless comments that don’t help the writer in any way can be taken offensively, and are not the point of the peer editing.
Straub continues to go through the logistics of peer editing: how to get started, what to address in the comments, where to put those comments, what your tone should be, how much to comment, how to present those comments, etc. He even provides examples of peer edits. Overall, I found much of what he had to say was clear and obvious, and I’m sure others would agree with me. The issue with peer editing (in my opinion) isn’t about how to go about it (of course, tips are always helpful and welcomed), but an issue of wanting to put in that time and effort. But the truth is, a peer edit is almost always super helpful. It allows you to see what/where other students understood/misunderstood, liked/didn’t like, connect with/didn’t connect with your paper. So really, we should be putting in the effort. If you appreciate constructive feedback, wouldn’t you want to do the same for others?
I agree with you that Straub’s piece is clear, obvious, helpful, and very relate to audience. We all appreciate feedback, and suggestion. there is one thing I want add on. We know people’s write skill and ability is different. We should also appreciate peers who give little feedback base on their best effort due to poor writing/reading skill.
My personal issue with peer critiquing is the effort the other individual puts into critiquing your work and providing helpful insight into it. In my past experience with classmates providing critique on my papers they missed key points which my professor had noticed during my final draft. However, I hope that everyone read this paper by Straub because it helps individuals have a better judgement of grading.
I personally agree with the fact that often times comments without any backing or detailing to them can be taken offensively. I do not consider myself to be an overly sensitive person however I am still trying to work on being more open and receptive to constructive criticism. I am glad that our classmates including myself read this post as it can help us all help each other in the time to come.