Boost Student Results with Feedback

There comes a point in time when you find yourself with students and it appears they have given up. This is something we can always look back at in our past and find ourselves in this similar situation. The questions we have to ask ourselves is how did we get to that point, why did we get to that point, and what did our teachers during that time do to get us out of that funk?

For one, we as educators never wish to make our students feel as a failure or not capable of succeeding. Usually, when I’m with a group or one on one with students, I do my  best to make our time fun with and without a student realizing how much they are learning to the best of their capabilities. Feedback should always be important whenever you are working towards goals.

Why?

Without feedback, it would be difficult to pinpoint where you can eliminate or modify certain things that are not working and apply a tweak to make achieving that goal possible. How we as educators address that feedback is what will make the difference in a child’s attitude towards learning. Certain phrases such as, “this is absolutely great and don’t give up” can go a long way versus, “this is great absolutely great but I know you can do better.”

Never push to hard to the point where a student feels it is impossible. How to approach negative feedback? Show students what they did that needs improvement but also make them aware of how simple the fix is and provide an example as well. The little things can go a long way and lead to a change of attitude long term. Go out there and give your best feedback!
Post by Kelvin J. Hinds