Feedback is information about performance. In education, it tells students what they did well and what needs work. Good feedback is specific, timely, and actionable. "Good job" is not feedback. "Your thesis is clear, but the second paragraph needs evidence" is.

Feedback comes in many forms. Written comments on essays, verbal notes during discussion, peer review, and self-assessment all count. The best feedback focuses on the task, not the person. It describes what was done and suggests next steps. It avoids vague praise and harsh criticism.

Timing matters. Feedback given weeks after an assignment loses its impact. Students have moved on. Immediate feedback, or at least prompt feedback, helps them connect the comment to the work. Technology can help with automated quizzes and grammar checks, but human feedback still matters for complex tasks.

Qualities of good feedback

• Specific and concrete
• Timely
• Focused on the work, not the student
• Actionable
• Balanced between strengths and improvements