By Anita Samuel
Feedback is supposed to help students grow. But too often, it feels like a one-way street — we write, they read (maybe), and the exchange ends there.
Whether it’s a note in the margins of a paper, a comment on a discussion post, or a quick chat after class, feedback should do more than correct. It should connect.
When feedback feels personal and conversational, students see it as part of the learning process, not just a grade justification. Online or in person, this means shifting from “Here’s what you did wrong” to “Here’s where you’re headed — and how I can help you get there.”
A few ways to make that happen:
- Respond like a collaborator, not a critic. Instead of “You didn’t explain this clearly,” try “Tell me more about what you meant here — this idea has potential.”
- Keep the door open. Invite replies. A quick “Do you agree?” or “What do you think?” turns feedback into a dialogue.
- Mix your modes. Written comments are great, but short voice notes or quick video messages can convey tone and care more naturally.
- Follow up. Reference earlier feedback in later conversations. It shows you’re paying attention and invested in their growth.
When feedback becomes a conversation, it builds trust. It helps students feel seen, not judged. And it reminds both sides that learning isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress, together.