EMAT Feedback Tips

Students are usually pleased—and sometimes surprised—to be asked for their feedback on a course. The following pointers can help you get the most out of the feedback experience.

Eliciting Good Feedback

• Talk to your students ahead of time.
• Let them know that your goal is to assist their learning in the course.
• Emphasize that their comments are for you, and that you take them seriously.
• Indicate that you will try to make changes to reflect the suggestions.

Using Feedback

• Talk to the students as soon as possible after reviewing the feedback.
• Let them know the range of comments you received. They may be surprised and interested to know there is a range of responses.
• Point out problems you cannot do anything about.
• Discuss what you can change and what you plan to do.
• By sharing feedback with your class, you reinforce with students that you value their comments. You also demonstrate respect for their ideas and model what it looks like to receive constructive feedback. Finally, you increase the chances of actually taking steps to modify and improve your teaching!