Feedback explained simply
Feedback in the world of education is what the echo is in the mountains - immediate feedback on what you have done. In education, it is the information learners receive from teachers, tutors or learning software to understand and improve their learning progress. It shows what is going well and where there is room for improvement. Good feedback is the key to learning success, whether it's a presentation or understanding a complicated mathematical concept.
Background information
Feedback in education is an essential part of the learning process. It enables learners to understand and reflect on their progress. Good feedback should be specific, relevant and constructive. It is not just about saying what is wrong, but also about how it can be improved.
The role of feedback in e-learning
In e-learning, feedback often replaces direct, personal interaction between teachers and learners. It can take many forms in digital learning environments: from automated answers in quizzes to personalized comments in learning management systems. Feedback helps learners to understand their progress, achieve learning goals and motivates them to take on further challenges. In virtual classrooms or online courses, it allows learners to evaluate and adjust their performance in real time. This is particularly important as e-learning is often self-directed and learners need to take ownership.
6 aspects to consider when giving feedback.
| Aspect | Description | Example |
| Type of feedback | Describes how feedback is given. | - Written (e-mail, comments on learning platforms) - Oral (video conferences, face-to-face meetings) |
| Timing of the feedback | Indicates when feedback is given. | - Immediate feedback (directly after a task) - Delayed feedback (after a review phase) |
| Source of the feedback | Who gives the feedback? | - Teachers - Classmates (peer feedback) - Automated systems (AI-based learning platforms) |
| Content of the feedback | What the feedback includes. | - Specific tips (e.g. on mistakes) - Praise and recognition - Suggestions for improvement |
| Aim of the feedback | What the feedback is intended to achieve. | - Increase motivation - Improve understanding - Guide to self-reflection |
| Technologies for feedback | Technologies used for feedback in e-learning. | - Adaptive learning systems - Learning analytics - Feedback tools in learning management systems |
Technologies behind feedback systems
The technologies behind feedback systems in e-learning are diverse and advanced. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are playing an increasingly important role. They make it possible to provide personalized feedback that is tailored to the learner's individual learning style and progress. Adaptive learning systems use algorithms to analyze learners' responses and interactions and generate personalized feedback based on them. These systems can identify where learners are struggling and provide targeted exercises and resources for improvement. Furthermore, learning analytics enable teachers to identify patterns and trends in learning behaviour and adapt their teaching materials accordingly to maximize learning success.