Feedback Strategies: Week 3

The first article I read was about being "a mirror" when giving feedback. I found this article very interesting because it emphasized how judgement can make feedback less effective. Although I think there is a place for judgement in some types of feedback, I can also see the point that voicing opinions can detract from an accurate and useful critique of someone's writings. Being a mirror allows the writer to see their work in an unbiased eye. This can really reveal what was done well, and offer feedback that the writer can then apply to any of their other works.

Source: Be a Mirror: Give Readers Feedback That Fosters a Growth Mindset, Gravity Goldberg


The second article criticized the pervasive use of the term "amazing" in giving encouraging feedback. While positive affirmation might seem to help motivate people, often they feel undeserving of the term "amazing", if they have done nothing to earn that praise. Instead, giving positive but constructive feedback will actually give the receiver something tangible to work with. I loved the example they gave of the American Idol judges, who all had their own style of giving feedback. To be frank, I don't think anyone actually cared about Paula's comments, because they were always so positive to the point where they didn't mean anything. A balance is important, as it is in all things.

Source: The Trouble with "Amazing", Jennifer Gonzalez

Feedback Matters, Pixabay