Feedback or Feedforward? Is Both an Option?

In the world of education, John Hattie has done extensive work in regarding analyzing practices and their effect on educational outcomes. One very prominent, high-yield practice is constructive and effective feedback. When used with very specified criteria it is a powerful tool for enhancing student learning and achievement. (Hattie, 2008) It's like feedback and feedforward are like secret weapons that supercharge the learning experience and give both educators and students a boost toward success. What are the key differences? When would you use which type?

Feedback is like your trusty sidekick that shows up after you've completed a task. It's like a mirror that reflects back your strengths and areas where you can improve. When you get constructive feedback, it's like having a coach who guides you to level up your skills. And here's the cool part: feedback can also be your cheerleader. It recognizes your achievements and tells you where you can grow, nurturing a mindset that says, "I can do this, and I can get even better." When implemented correctly, it is capable of creating an atmosphere of trust and open communication, which is basically the secret for making learning really work. Typically this is executed like an Oreo: Say something positive you like. Offer the feedback for the area of improvement. End with another positive. (Harapnuik, 2020)

Now, let's talk about feedforward. This is the mentor that comes before you even start the mission. Feedforward is all about setting goals and getting ready for action. It's like having a wise guide who gives you a map before you even set foot on your learning journey. By anticipating obstacles and handing you strategies for success, feedforward makes you feel like a pro. It's also all about making your education fit like a glove. Feedforward aligns what you need to learn with how you learn best, giving you a personalized experience. That not only helps you gain specific skills but also makes you feel like you own your education, making you stick with it and stay engaged for the long haul. This is approached a little more directly: What worked? What can you do better? (Harapnuik, 2020)

So, in a nutshell, feedback and feedforward are like your trusty sidekick and mentor, enhancing the educational experience. One thing to keep in mind is that before either is effective both of the participants must have a trusting relationship and the focus of the feedback must be clear, keeping in mind the personalities of both the giver and the receiver. Brené Brown argues that "clear is kind", but it's common knowledge that critical comments shut others down. "Brené Brown explores this further in the following ways: 'Hinting' at the issue or telling half-truths to make someone else feel better is unkind. Talking about people instead of to them is unkind. Not setting clear expectations for others, but blaming them for not reaching them is unkind." (Brown, 2018)

I think in the educational environment, one needs a little bit of both feedback and feed-forward. Feedback shows you where you've been and how to get better. Conversely, feedforward gives you a clear picture of reality, like the roadmap and tools for your learning journey. When you put them together, it's like having a dynamic duo that can transform your educational experience and make it a win-win for both students and educators alike. Both allow for what many strive toward-continuous growth and educational excellence.

References

Brown, B. (2018, October 15). Clear Is Kind. Unclear Is Unkind. Brene Brown. https://brenebrown.com/articles/2018/10/15/clear-is-kind-unclear-is-unkind/#:~:text=Adapted%20from%20Dare%20to%20Lead

Harapnuik, D. (2020, April 30). Feedforward vs. Feedback. Harapnuik.org. https://www.harapnuik.org/?p=8273

Hattie, J. (2008). Visible learning. Routledge.