What type of feedback is most effective for student learning?

Specific and actionable feedback is the most effective type of feedback for student learning because it provides clear guidance on what students did well and what areas need improvement. This type of feedback helps students understand their strengths and weaknesses in a detailed manner, enabling them to take concrete steps toward enhancing their understanding and skills.

When feedback is specific, it often includes examples or criteria related to the task at hand, helping students to see precisely what they can do to improve. This clarity fosters a growth mindset, as students can focus on aspects that they can change rather than feeling overwhelmed by general comments or solely being told they received a certain grade. Additionally, actionable feedback teaches students how to self-assess and monitor their own learning in the future, which is a crucial skill for academic success and lifelong learning.

General comments or vague encouragement might motivate students temporarily, but they often lack the depth needed for meaningful improvement, while feedback that focuses only on grades provides no constructive input on how to achieve better outcomes. Therefore, specific and actionable feedback serves as a powerful tool for fostering deeper learning and continuous improvement among students.