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Center for Curriculum, Instruction and Technology (CCIT)

Approaches to Effective Feedback

Small Ways to Amp Up Your Feedback

"As a teacher, most of the time it is easy to give encouraging, positive feedback. However, it is in the other times that we have to dig deep to find an appropriate feedback response that will not discourage a student’s learning."

Below you'll find a few different approaches to enhancing the quality and effectiveness of feedback.

Image: BalancedThe Feedback Sandwich

This feedback technique consists of three components:

  1. Begin with positive feedback.
  2. Then, introduce constructive or negative feedback.
  3. Close with specific feedback that builds up the learner’s trust and comfort.

The feedback sandwich aims to minimize any detrimental effect the negative feedback may have on the individual and ensures that the learner is not discouraged.

Image: ConsistentAsk the 4 Questions

Learners want to know where they stand in regards to their work. With this feedback strategy, providing answers to the following four questions on a regular basis will help provide quality feedback:

  • What can the student do?
  • What can’t the student do?
  • How does the student’s work compare with that of others?
  • How can the student do better?

Point Forward

Image: ActionableGreat feedback begs an obvious action/response from a student. It provides a clear course of action for the next time around or outlines a new plan for moving forward. In short: a student should know what to do next; they should never be left guessing based on a teacher’s comments.

To ensure that any feedback is actionable, ask yourself the simple question: “Will my student know how to proceed?” Instead of marking an answer incorrect and walking away, actionable feedback refers a student to a resource, chapter, or practice problem to brush up on where they went wrong. It may be useful to create a bank of resources to keep for yourself so that you can quickly refer a student to a particular, helpful resource.

Image: light bulbTech Tip

Did you know that you can record video or audio feedback in Canvas' SpeedGrader?
Video or audio can be used when you want to increase your presence and connection to the student, personalize your feedback, convey nuance, or avoid miscommunication. For some, speaking can be more efficient than writing too. Learn more about adding a media comment in Canvas

Contact the CCIT team if you're interested in trying any of these strategies and would like assistance with design and implementation! 

Want more suggestions? Check it out directly from the source: 20 Ways To Provide Effective Feedback For Learning

 

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