What Is Feedback and Why Is It Important?

Feedback is a reaction or information that occurs as a result of actions or behavior undertaken by an individual or group. In a Learning & Development context, both positive and negative feedback is crucial. Feedback provides a sense of engagement and interactivity, and allows learners to take ownership of their learning. Effective feedback shows learners their current level of performance, and lets them know what they need to do to reach a higher level.

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What Does Feedback Mean?

Feedback is an event that occurs when the output of a system is used as input back into the system as part of a chain of cause and effect. This alters variables in the system, therefore resulting in different output and consequently different feedback as well, which can either be good or bad. In the case of a system which requires knowledge of the output in order to improve or deliver on a specific output, then feedback is essential and good. But for a system that does not require feedback, such as an audio system, then feedback is often bad. Take for example a microphone and speaker system, when the sound from the speakers (output) is picked up by the microphone (input) it creates a negative feedback that produces a very high pitched sound.
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What Opportunities Does eLearning Provide for Feedback?

eLearning offers a range of opportunities to give feedback to the learner. On a basic level, questions inserted into the learning can act as a ‘knowledge check’, with the feedback offered reinforcing learning points covered in the content so far. Alternatively, questions can be asked before new information is introduced. This enables learners to think critically about a learning point and ‘discover’ the correct answer using their own common sense and existing knowledge. The feedback then expands on the learning point, once interest has been firmly established. Be sure to make it clear to the learner that they will not be penalized for incorrect answers. Assessment topics, featuring a number of questions, can offer opportunities for feedback in a number of ways. Used as ‘end of learning’ tests, assessments can measure the learner’s retention of the learning, and direct them to specific areas of the learning which they may need to repeat. Alternatively, used as a diagnostic tool, these t...
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