Feedback and its importance - Essay Example

Feedback and its importance Definition of Feedback: In general terms the concept of Feedback refers to the output of an action or a reaction to a performance. However, the dictionary definition of the term ‘feedback’ states that it information provided as a response to an inquiry (Askew, 2000). Types of feedback: There are various types of feedback such as positive or negative; qualitative or quantitative; formal or informal; written or verbal etc. It also includes effective, evaluative, motivational, and descriptive feedback.

Importance of feedback: Feedbacks play a crucial role in the learning process, be it in an industry (i.e. in organizations) or in universities. Since the key objective of providing feedbacks is to inform the individuals concerned regarding their performance, and give them objective opinions, it helps them to understand their strengths and weaknesses and utilize their capabilities to the optimum, and hence pave way for self-growth. Furthermore, feedback helps in identifying the problem areas or areas of concern and develops ways to overcome the shortcomings.

For instance, in terms of organizational learning, the managers periodically evaluate the job performance of their workers and employees, and provide them feedback on the basis of a thorough assessment. Such an assessment can then be used by the workers to identify gaps in their performance and use the same to increase their productivity (Anderson 1990; Kluger & Denisi 1996). Similarly, feedback in universities, which are given in the form of grades or critique of their work, helps the students in identifying the areas in which they excel and those where they need to put in more effort.

Various schools and universities also enable teacher feedback, whereby the students assess the performance of their teachers. It is only through feedback, that any substantial and positive change can be hoped to be achieved. How to respond to feedback: The response to feedback usually depends on the type of feedback received such as positive or negative for instance. Responding to a critical or negative feedback is of crucial importance, since it could prove to be helpful or harmful to one’s career, depending on the response.

The individual receiving the feedback must respond positively and take necessary positive actions to overcome the shortcomings listed in the feedback; keep periodical tabs on their own performance and compare with their previous ones. All feedback must be taken in the right spirit and be responded in a positive manner, in order to grow and improve one’s performance. Recommendation and justification: Motivational feedback is one of the most significant types of feedback which is used in organizations as well as in universities.

Such a feedback is periodical in nature, and tends to motivate rather than criticize the individuals. It helps in achievement of intrinsic goals by focusing on the behavioral aspects of the students or employees motivate them to be self-efficient and be persistent in their efforts (Maehr & Meyer, 1997; Wigfield & Eccles, 2000). References: Askew, S., (2000). Feedback for learning, Routledge Publication, Pp. 133 Anderson, J. O., (1990). Assessing classroom achievement. Alberta Journal of Educational Research 36, P.

1-3 Kluger, A., N., Denisi, A., (1996). The effects of feedback interventions on performance: A historical review, a metal analysis, and a preliminary feedback intervention theory. Psychological Bulletin 199, Pp. 254-284 Maehr, M. L., Meyer, H. A., (1997). Understanding motivation and schooling: where we've been, where we are, and where we need to go. Educational Psychological Review, Vol.09, Pp. 371-409 Wigfield, A., & Eccles, J. S. (2000). Expectancy?value theory of achievement motivation. Contemporary Educational Psychology, 25, 68?81