What is the main benefit of peer assessment in the classroom?

The main benefit of peer assessment in the classroom is that it promotes self-reflection and critical thinking. When students assess the work of their peers, they engage deeply with the material, which encourages them to think critically about both their own work and that of others. This process requires them to analyze, evaluate, and provide constructive feedback, all of which helps to reinforce their understanding of the subject matter.

Through peer assessment, students can identify areas of strength and weakness, not just in their peers' work but in their own as well. This reflective practice can lead to greater awareness of learning objectives and foster a growth mindset. Furthermore, by articulating their thoughts on their peers' work, students often consolidate their knowledge and gain new perspectives, which stimulates further inquiry and learning.

The other options relate to benefits that may accompany aspects of peer assessment but do not capture its fundamental purpose. While peer assessment might ease the grading burden on teachers, this is not the main educational value. Relying on peers for answers can undermine independent learning, and while standardization in grading can be an outcome of using rubrics, it is not the primary focus of peer assessment. The core advantage lies in enhancing self-reflection and critical thinking skills among students.