Sources of Feedback

It's important to receive feedback from a variety of sources. There are at least five general areas that trainers can receive feedback from:

• Objective Data - While test scores can be controversial, they are a form of objective feedback. Scores are used to pinpoint discrepancies between actual goals and intended goals. Tracking data is not only a way to site strengths and weaknesses but to analyze trends. It's necessary to use multiple measures and a variety of data when providing this type of feedback.

• Technology - Video is an excellent form of technology that can allow instructors to see themselves as others see them. Viewing the video with a peer or a consultant can be especially helpful. When using this method it's important to stop the video occasionally and discuss everything from teaching techniques to the reactions of the learners.

The article below provides essential keys to providing feedback.

• Administrative - Having a supervisor provide feedback is the primary method many schools use when evaluating and training trainers. It's important to rigorously select individuals both internally and outside the organization that can evaluate and provide feedback for instructors.

• Peers - Peers can offer valuable feedback because they are often teaching the same material and working with several of the same students. In fact, research reported in Education Week states that instructors generally find feedback from peers and coaches more valuable than from school leaders.

This article demonstrates why peer feedback is valued and even listened to more than top-down feedback in many instances.

• Students - There are several important ways that your learners can give effective feedback. They should be asked to provide written feedback at different points throughout the semester or the year. Short surveys that are given several times are great ways to gather valuable information. Another way is to bring in an outside consultant who can lead a group discussion on the strengths and weaknesses of both the instructor and the course.