Mara,
Yes, the written word can be misunderstood when the rules of syntax and norms are not the same to both sender and receiver. Using a "Netiquette" sheet in your reference documents may help with this.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
In the first example, Mike commits an error or omission, whereas in the second scenario, Kathy commits an air of comission. In other words, Mike does not accurately discusses performance, and Kathy downplays her performance.
For Mike, in providing them feedback, is probably a good idea to discuss your evaluation in terms of his analysis of his performance. In this way, Mike will be better able to improve in the future.
In contrast, for Kathy, in my be better to use your analysis of her performance. It may not be beneficial for Kathy to point out that her evaluation of herself was not accurate.
I try to avoid negative comments on the discussion board itself, where all can read them. I prefer to emphasize when students are doing the things I want them to, such as keeping to the subject or providing interesting comments based on research. When I do see some students doing things I don't want, such as not addressing part of the assignment or failing to do research, I usually post a general comment to the forum, not singling out any student(s).
Not only word selectivity, but things such as using ALL CAPS to emphasize a word or phrase. I use all caps for this, and had a student complain that I was "screaming" at her because of it.
James,
Very good response and strategies. Thank you for you insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Senario 1:
Begin perhaps by expressing to Mike how much you appreciate his confidence and mention some specific things in the assignment that gave him good reason to feel confident. Move then into a conversation about making sure a student addresses all requirements within a given assignment. Perhaps Mike did do well on those points he addressed but did not nevessarily address all that were mentioned.
Scenario 2:
Thank Kathy for her efforts. Mention that you agree that her assignment did not reflect an excellent effort on her part but that you think she is capable of doing much better. Explore what she thinks may be some of the reasons she did not perform her best. If she was aware it was not great before turning it in, you should be able to come up with some specific reasons for this. Is understanding of the material lacking? If so, can you and she schedule a time to meet in an attempt to clear up any specific topics/concepts giving her trouble?
Perry ,
Well done and very thorough. Thank you for sharing your ideas.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Samia,
The sandwich is very applicable in both. Thank you.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Perry ,
Thank you for your reflection and comments.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
James, rubrics in both scenarios are recommended as they will highlight the relationship between the deliverable and the expected/requirements. However, rubrics alone seem quite impersonal; I always recommend that they be followed by a note of encouragement and an offer to explain further.
In both scenarios the sandwich feedback approach appears to be needed. Highlight the positive, tackle the errors and issues clearly and substantively and close the feedback on a positive, shot in the arm manner.
Good day,
James and Dr. Vaillancourt, I agree that being honest with the student, in a way that illustrates politeness and professionalism, is best. Such is the only ethical practice that can best support the student learning well using the course tools or materials in detail. Some students seek honesty and clear communication to enhance their learning and to advance their studies. I appreciated reading your prior comments posted.
Thank you, Perry Spann
Good day,
I considered the two scenarios, and to describe how I will communicate to each of these learners is to note that I will use manners, clear diction, and examples to support the reasons for my comments based on their reading and application of the course criteria for the evaluation assignment.
The reasoning behind my feedback decisions is to support any analysis I submit to students with the materials or resources from the course as reference since the course materials are available to use as often as needed for clearness.
I would communicate with Mike regarding his performance in relationship to how he thought he did by commending his positive attitude, noting specifically what is incorrect, why, and how the correction can be made with reference to the course materials for support. I would include noting the particular sources that can be of help. Including examples for clarity would also be a goal.
Then, I would be able to provide actionable feedback to him to help him improve his performance using a rubric with supported feedback. I like to illustrate a positive comment before applying constructive criticism for correction.
My communication with Kathy may differ from how I communicated with Mike because the need to indicate specific sources for clarity in great detail may decrease, slightly. I would still apply a rubric for reasoning.
My area of focus to provide actionable feedback to help her improve performance would regard being confident in her abilities and reenforcing the value of critical assessment or thinking and careful reading to complete assignments.
Thank you, Perry Spann
James,
Listening for his point of view is an excellent method toward a sound resolution. The specific personalized feedback makes this an excellent response, also. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
James,
Yes, most definitely. Evidencial information to support the accomplishment is important confirmation.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Scenario 2:
I would still present here with the rubric and the scores he earned so can affirm her belief that accomplished the task.
Scenario 1:
List the parts of the assignment he did complete and the parts he did not. Ask him why he believes he did complete all of it. He may have point you did not see.
Present him with the rubric and the scores he earned.
I go through the entire paper with the track changes option on and corrections and comment as I go.
Robert,
This is a solid approach. Thanks for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Rick,
That is a good focus and approach. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Garry,
Hang in there and keep striving for excellence for the students! ;-]
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
