Synergy: An Online Platform for Dialogic Peer Feedback at Scale

Abstract

In this paper, we introduce an online platform called Synergy that is developed to support dialogic peer feedback at scale. The design of Synergy is founded on a theoretical model of dialogic feedback. In this model, dialogic feedback is conceptualized as a collaborative learning activity with three interconnected phases, involving different levels of regulated learning. Grounded in this model, Synergy comprises tools to support learning activities during dialogic feedback. These tools incorporate scripting and learning analytics support to guide learners. By using Synergy as an example, we discuss the importance of informing the design of CSCL tools with theories.