The Effect of Feedback
Have you heard of ASCD? [“ASCD is a membership organization that develops programs, products, and services essential to the way educators learn, teach, and lead.”] I receive their magazine “Educational Leadership” monthly. At the end of the magazine, there is a section called, “Tell Me About A Time…” where readers (just like us!) can write in on specific topics. So, of course, I did!
The topic was:
Tell about a time when your feedback to a student had a strong effect (positive or negative).
Here was my entry:
Providing feedback helps a child remain on the path of success. Encouraging words allow the student to know that the decisions they have made were effective. Constructive criticism teaches the child a lesson about self improvement so that success can be attained the next time. Choose your words wisely so that your intention is of benefit to the child in every way.
A student turned in their ongoing monthly “Current Event” project that was not their best work. It was important that I set the tone so instead of grading a paper that was not their best work, I wrote: “You can do better than this. I know you can! Resubmit.” I explained to the student that I knew this was a rushed assignment with little thought or effort. They then replied that they ran out of time (even though they had all month long). I asked them, “Why are you allowing yourself to accept a failing grade for this? Do you not think you can do better?” The child knew this was the easy way out and I was not going to let it happen. The next day, that same child turned in a project that was not only their best, but one of the best projects I had seen all year. Push your students to always do their best, and not allow themselves to take the easy road.
My feedback and belief in the child’s abilities allowed them to showcase their best work for each and every assignment from that day on. This child will be successful; I made sure of it!
About the author, Gretchen
I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.