When teachers provide regular feedback, their students not only understand where they are learning, but they also have a better sense that someone is paying attention. However, not all feedback is the same. Beyond the “feedback sandwich” - surrounding a critique with positive observations (or the ABC method - “Action, Because, Could We”) - feedback can also be summative or formative. Regardless, the quicker the feedback loop occurs, the faster students will know what to address in their work.

Formative feedback often happens in situ, and it can be verbal or written. Furthermore, this kind of feedback “allow[s learners] additional opportunities to practice or resubmit their work.” It can come from teachers or other students in the form of self-reflections or peer critiques.

When learners get formative feedback in the moment, they benefit from increased comprehension and learning growth. Here are some ways to support a quick feedback loop in classrooms:

• Implement formative marking practices when students can revise and resubmit their work after receiving feedback. This process “allows [students] to address confusions and misconceptions before they become embedded in the students’ thinking…[which] increases their efficacy and ownership in the learning process.”
• Encourage educators to keep track of when and to whom they provide feedback to make sure they distribute their comments equally throughout the class. Doing so ensures that every student receives individualized feedback regularly without overwhelming teachers.
• Peer assessments increase the timeliness and frequency of feedback. Encourage students to give each other constructive criticism throughout the process of completing an assignment, up to and including working together for specific ideas on how to improve future assessments.
• Self-assessments, through quizzes or via online programs, “can provide frequent feedback for students while helping to manage the grading and feedback workload for faculty.”

To find additional tips about closing the feedback loop, check out the following links:

• Fast and Efficient Ways to Provide Feedback
• 5 Research-Based Tips for Providing Students with Meaningful Feedback