The words that a teacher uses to give feedback will make and break students. However, the first part is getting the student to understand the importance of actually reading the feedback. In David Gooblar’s article “Getting Them to Read Our Comments” he provides a few good strategies on how to get students more engaged. Something that he mentioned was placing less importance on final projects and more importance on the steps to get there. This may look like many different things. Say there is a cumulative semester long assignment like a journal. Rather than focusing on the final participation or completion grade throughout the semester offer opportunities for students to submit their journals for checks. This offers an opportunity for the instructor to leave comments and students the opportunity to make adjustments. However, it is incredibly important to also pay attention to the language that is being used. Teachers should insure that they are writing to their audience. Making sure that they are using the right level of verbiage for each different type of student. Making sure that the responses are thoughtful but get to the point. It is insuring that each students is being given an equal opportunity to succeed. While this may take a few extra minutes to construct comments on every single check point it allows for students to grow, which is far better than anything.
I think you made some really good points. I agree that making sure you use the right level of verbiage for each different type of student. Communication is key, and adapting for different students can make or break the classroom.
This is great! We must focus our students’ attention on the learning process and their success rather than stressing about the final assessment or grade. I like the idea of journals that help students keep a record of their learning. By having students complete them and by checking them frequently, you’re instilling a sense of responsibility and accountability in students. I read the article about graphic organizers and how to use them correctly. Similar to how you mentioned focusing on the steps to the final assessment, graphic organizers can be used as a step to write successfully. It helps students break up their ideas and build writing fluency. The concept of student-led learning is so crucial to students’ success in our classroom. When we consider our language and feedback to students completing these types of assignments, we can assist their progress and help ensure they are confident and comfortable with their learning.
Teacher feedback was always very important to me in school, which makes it a top priority for me as a teacher. This feedback must be brief, but also productive, and I think you explained that well.