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How-to: Understand and Use Feedback

At this point you will have completed your first assignment in DBS. The next step is understanding and using any feedback you may have received. Be aware that all classes and assignments are different so feedback will vary a lot.

You can get feedback in multiple ways. Feedback is commonly associated with the "formal" feedback (or your grades) you receive on assignments. However, you can get feedback from class discussions, comments from peers, and even comments in class from your lecturer. Remember, every class, department and assignment is different so the type of feedback you get will vary.

It's your responsibility to ask questions, listen, and reflect on any feedback you get.

Why is feedback important?

Feedback is important because we use it to develop and improve our academic writing and critical thinking throughout our time in education. It’s also necessary beyond this because as you start and develop your career you’ll use feedback to improve your work. Developing your ability to understand and use feedback, and to reflect on your own work is an integral part of your 3rd level education

Feedback can be broken down into two categories: Formative and Summative

This is feedback you’ll get during your assignment and it can be used to improve your work. It’s up to you to ask for feedback and to listen to any advice and constructive criticism you might receive.

This is feedback you get at the end of your assignment and is usually your grade/mark. While your grade is important, you should also read any comments that might be added by the lecturer and ask questions if you don’t understand any of the feedback.