Feedback pledge

The feedback pledge is a sample model to explain the purpose of feedback and ensure that it is based on principles of integrity and authenticity. A personal feedback pledge can be used as a way to introduce feedback to students and to make a case for its importance as part of the academic experience.

1. I will be honest and direct in my criticism

By criticising some aspects of your work I am engaging you, as sophisticated learners, in a dialogue on academic standards. I will not flinch from criticism, but I will anchor it, where possible, to constructive, formative advice.

2. I will not offer praise lightly

My feedback will not include empty compliments or platitudes. When I do offer praise on some aspect of your work, it is because it achieves a high standard that would be worth replicating in future assignments.

3. My feedback is based on informed opinion

Although I am by some measures an ‘expert’ in the field, my knowledge is by no means exhaustive and my opinion is but one of many perspectives on the subject. I welcome challenges to my opinion so long as they are well-argued and substantiated.

4. My feedback will be forward-looking and action-oriented

Although I may correct occasional factual errors, I will direct my feedback towards aspects of the writing, analysis and critical thinking processes that can be applied to future assignments and learning.

5. My feedback will be enquiry-led

I will frame my feedback around questions for further enquiry and provide guidance, wherever possible, towards sources and strategies for consideration. In many cases the questions will have no answer, but should act as cues for further reading, research and dialogue.

6. I encourage you to respond to my feedback

Although a paragraph or two of writing on the bottom of an assignment may seem like an end point, it should be treated as the starting point of a process of interpretation, use and, if necessary, dialogue. If you would like clarification or further advice, please ask!