What is it?

Many students are under the common misconception that only staff can give feedback. However, this doesn’t have to be the case; feedback can come from a whole range of people including lecturers, peers and postgraduate teaching assistants. For example, during dissertation sessions and tutor groups, students may receive a wealth of feedback from both staff and peers. This consequently gives students the opportunity to hear a range of different perspectives on their work, which will allow them to make the necessary improvements. Usually, this type of feedback is given on an informal basis, but if the feedback counts towards a final assessment, for example, a form may be used to keep a written record of any feedback given.

However, feedback from peers and staff does not necessarily have to be on a one-off basis, since it can be on-going throughout the year depending on the module or course. For example, students who are required to participate in laboratory sessions as part of their degree regularly receive feedback from their lecturers, postgraduate students and peers.

How can students make the most of it?

Students should be encouraged to actively seek feedback not only from their lecturers, but also their peers, since it will give them the opportunity to hear different perspectives on their work. This will in turn allow students to further improve their work based on any comments they may have received. Similarly, students must keep a written record of any verbal feedback given so that it can be used for future assignments or revision purposes. Moreover, if students aren’t clear on any feedback they may have received from their lecturer or peers, they shouldn’t hesitate to seek further guidance and ask for clarification by emailing or arranging an appointment with whoever gave them feedback.