It’s difficult to overstate the important of feedback in the learning process. Study after study shows that providing students with quality feedback is one of the most important factors in enhancing achievement.
L. Vergroesen
Evaluation and feedback are essential to the learning process, enabling continuous improvement and growth. Evaluation involves assessing learners’ progress, performance, and understanding of the course material. It helps instructors gauge the effectiveness of their teaching methods and the attainment of learning objectives. On the other hand, feedback provides valuable insights to learners about their strengths and areas for improvement. It supports learners refining their skills, boosting confidence, and fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Together, evaluation and feedback create a robust learning environment that empowers learners and enhances the overall educational experience.
What Makes Good Feedback
- Good feedback is timely.
- Feedback needs to be promptly delivered so that students can have time to digest comments and apply them.
- Good feedback is constructive not critical.
- Providing feedback that is phrased in a constructive manner makes it easier for students to process.
- Constructive feedback give students a roadmap for improving performance.
- Good feedback is specific.
- Specific feedback helps students understand exactly what they did correctly and what areas need improvement. It provides clear guidance on how to improve or enhance their performance.
- Good feedback is accessible.
- Feedback should be written in clear, logical language where students can reference when needed.
- To give clear, logical feedback be sure to use a rubric for assessment.
- Good feedback is actionable.
- Actionable feedback encourages an iterative approach to learning. Students can use the feedback to make improvements, receive further feedback, and continue to refine their work and understanding.
Best Practices
- Assess the purpose of the assignment
- Clarify what good performance looks like by providing rubrics for assignments
- Give students opportunities to reflect and respond to feedback
References
Christine. (2023). Five Characteristics of Good Feedback to Apply. https://viralsolutions.net/five-characteristics-of-good-feedback/
Vergroesen, L. L. (2021). Providing feedback to students: Create a more streamlined and effective process with our template. https://www.eduflow.com/blog/providing-feedback-to-students-create-a-more-streamlined-and-effective-process-with-our-template