What is it?

When students go on placement, they regularly receive feedback from a variety of sources including their tutors, colleagues and peers. Receiving feedback on placement allows students not only to receive feedback straightaway, but also seek guidance and support from professionals in the field.

Feedback can come in a number of different forms, whether it’s informal feedback whilst the student is undertaking a particular assessment, or as part of an assessment where a form is used to give students structured and detailed feedback. The merit of informal feedback is that it allows the student to actively discuss their work, and seek clarification if anything is unclear or that they would like further guidance on.

How can students make the most of it?

It is important that students are well aware of how advantageous placements are with respect to receiving feedback. Students must therefore understand the value not only of feedback relating to assessments, but also informal feedback, since both of which are extremely beneficial. Moreover, students should be encouraged to keep a written record of any verbal feedback given, and seek further guidance or support if need be. Keeping a written record of any feedback they receive will allow students not only to use it in the future, but also track their progress throughout their placement.