Feedback as a Teaching Tool

Why do we, in general, stink at giving feedback?

• We were never taught how to do it
• We fear we will hurt someone's feelings
• It's painful to give feedback

Consider a few quick pearls that will increase your success at giving valuable feedback:

• Realize that learners (students/residents) crave feedback....proven in multiple studies
• Feedback IS a powerful teaching tool and isn't just a way of evaluating someone.
• Avoid at all cost, the phrase,"good job." Be specific about what you mean
• Praise in public, perfect in private
• Avoid the "complain syndrome" and don't fall victim to it. This refers to the phenomenon in which we complain about a behavior or trait and NEVER actuall tell the person. We have all done it. Set yourself apart from others by giving the learner the needed feedback.
• Learners won't improve without feedback. Just like the Nike commercial says,"Just do it!"