Formative Feedback
There are two broad types, or forms, of feedback.
Formative Feedback – feedback that facilitates further learning and development
Summative Evaluation– feedback that evaluates learning
A a developmental approach to writing and speaking is essential to student learning. Building formative feedback into sequenced course assignments as well as into informal classroom practice is an essential strategy for helping students develop their communication abilities.
Formative Feedback Success Strategies
- Require students to take responsibility for their own learning.
- Communicate clear, specific learning goals.
- Focus on goals that represent valuable educational outcomes with applicability beyond the learning context.
- Identify the student’s current knowledge/skills and the necessary steps for reaching the desired goals.
- Require development of plans for attaining the desired goals.
- Encourage students to self-monitor progress toward the learning goals.
- Provide examples of learning goals including, when relevant, the specific grading criteria or rubrics that will be used to evaluate the student’s work.
- Provide frequent assessment, including peer and student self-assessment and assessment embedded within learning activities.
- Include feedback that is non-evaluative, specific, timely, and related to the learning goals, and that provides opportunities for the student to revise and improve work products and deepen understandings.
- Promote metacognition and reflection by students on their work.