The end of the sandwich.

After completing my first two courses in the ADL program I now want to be the teacher for my students that I needed as a young student. I want to give feedback that encourages growth while also taking advantage of teachable moments. What has most impressed me in the program has been the value of “feedforward”. I was very aware of the “sandwich” method of criticism/feedback where you start with something positive, state your criticism, and finally end with something positive. Although this may have left the student feeling very good, I often felt that this process wasn't beneficial for the student. It also left me wondering if the receiver was truly aware of the requirements to improve their work, or were leaving the conversation feeling that no improvement was necessary. However, with “feedforward” you focus on “what worked? And what can be done better?” I found this to be a more effective process of giving feedback. I now find myself anxiously anticipating feedback from my professors. With this model I have a clear idea of how I can improve my work and my thinking therefore, allowing me to grow in my learning.