The Power of Feedback

03/19/2015 – Today’s activity is called three-way teaching. Each one of us is asked to teach a classmate a certain skill. After the session, an observer would provide a feedback on how the session was conducted. The one who was taught would then provide a feedback on how the observer provided a feedback. In short, it is to give feedback on a feedback.

Through this activity, I have learned the importance of feedback. Let us go into the things to remember in providing a good feedback. First, you need to have a clear understanding on the skill being taught. Second, you also need to pay good attention during the teaching process. When it comes it to the feedback itself, it should contain a fair share of positive and negative points. I think “strengths” and “points for improvement” are more appropriate terms to use. As much as you would want to provide only positive feedback, you also need to point out the things that need to be improved on. Feedback should be in a constructive way, something that will not down the spirit of the one you are giving feedback to. Also, one should take into account the frequency of feedback. When the learner is at the beginner’s level, constant feedback is important. This feedback then fades slowly when the learner slowly masters the skill.

As Physical Therapists, we are faced with different clients that would take feedback differently. We need to be flexible in adapting to these receptions because providing feedback is something we do in our profession. We should keep in mind that feedback plays a very huge role in the learning process since it serves as a guide for the learner. What’s more important is how you help your client process the learning.