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Online Study Skills Hub: Understanding Feedback

Competencies essential for academic and professional success

Understanding Feedback Introduction

Understanding Feedback on marked assignments is crucial for university students to improve their academic performance. Feedback offers insights into strengths and areas for improvement, guiding future work.

Types of Feedback:

  • Written Comments: Detailed notes on your assignment that highlight what you did well and what needs improvement. These comments may focus on content, structure, clarity, and adherence to guidelines.

  • Grades and Rubrics: The grade provides a summary evaluation of your work, often accompanied by a rubric that breaks down your performance across different criteria (e.g., argument, evidence, writing style).

  • In-Person or Video Feedback: Some instructors provide feedback through meetings or video recordings, offering a more personalised and detailed explanation of your performance.

Approaching Feedback:

  • Read Carefully: Take time to thoroughly read and understand all comments. Avoid reacting emotionally; instead, focus on constructive criticism as a learning opportunity.

  • Identify Patterns: Look for recurring themes in the feedback. For example, if multiple assignments mention weak analysis or poor structure, prioritise improving these areas.

  • Clarify Doubts: If any feedback is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask your instructor for clarification. Understanding their expectations can help you perform better in future assignments.

  • Create an Action Plan: Based on the feedback, outline specific steps to address weaknesses. This might include revisiting certain topics, refining your writing skills, or changing your study habits.

  • Apply Feedback: Actively apply the lessons learned to your next assignments. Continuous improvement is key to academic success.

Overall Strategy:

Understanding and applying feedback is essential for academic growth. By carefully reviewing feedback, identifying areas for improvement, seeking clarification, and implementing changes, university students can enhance their skills and perform better in future assignments.