Praising a student is easy. Giving critical feedback can be much tougher.
I mean, how can we call their attention to the things that don't sound great, while still building up their confidence?
Are feedback sandwiches (praise-criticism-praise) the answer? Or do we just praise their efforts? Or compliment mediocre work anyway?
A 2014 study provides some clues, and highlights one specific ingredient that is important to include in whatever feedback we give students, that could make them feel more empowered and likely to not only accept our feedback but act on it too.
Get all the nerdy details: How to Give Students Critical Feedback Without Crushing Their Confidence
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