Effective Feedback

How to give effective feedback:

1. Clarify expectations. If you give students a grade for participation, clarify your expectations at the beginning of the course. Precisely define participation, and establish how students can earn these marks (e.g., asking/answering questions, making insightful comments, engaging in class debates, etc.) Explain why you require active participation and explain the pedagogical benefits of this course component. For example, some instructors stress this as a valuable “soft skill” in the workplace: participation trains students to become effective communicators. Asking international students about their own expectations surrounding participation might also be helpful, ensuring their understanding of this concept while engaging them in their own learning.
2. Provide descriptive and specific feedback. Clearly state where students did well and where improvements are needed, accompanied by examples from students’ work, will maximize the effectiveness of feedback. Pointing students to the next steps so they can avoid making the mistakes as much as possible.  Give examples of when pointing to next steps can help your students register information at the moment and recall information later on. Types of feedback.
3. Convey constructive feedback non-judgmentally. It is essential for students to feel encouraged and supported.
4. Offer feedback in conjunction with a detailed rubric–this way, students can visualize where they stand in relation to the mastery of knowledge, content, or skill. Grading strategies. learn more about Using Rubrics.
5. Give different formats or more than one format of feedback at a time. You may give feedback verbally and in written format on the rubric after students present in class, for example, to clarify potential misunderstandings or misinterpretations. Encouraging students to ask for clarification after receiving written feedback on their essays is another effective way to encourage communication.