Student Feedback: Handle with Care

Students are people, too. :)

It's important to keep that in mind when you provide feedback on essays, tests, and other assignments.

I was always taught to say something positive before saying anything "negative." This can seem somewhat artifical, though, and students have probably picked up on this "trick."

Below are some things to keep in mind when providing student feedback.

From: http://www.oucom.ohiou.edu/fd/teachingtips.htm

1. Handle with care.
Use a "desire to help" attitude with the student.

2. Focus your attention.
Don'st split your focus with any other activity (e.g. incoming phone calls beepers, etc.) while delivering feedback.

3. Be direct.
Vague or general statement don't show the student what needs to be done.

4. Stay objective.
Don't guess or assume that you know why the student is doing something. Stick to what's factual, and withold judgments about the student's behavior

5. Watch your timing.
Feedback is processed most effectively when you deliver it promptly, so that whatever incident you're discussing is gresth in both your minds. Feedback that is saved up over tiem can confus and anger the student.

6. Feedback should be easy to act upon.
Offer realistic suggestions and options for change that the student can put into use right away. Don't hammer away at things beyond everone's control.

7. Involve the student in corrective action.
Allow the student to work collaboratively with you to come up with some options for change. The more the student feels empowered, the more likely the chances of behavior change.