Feedback

My instructor was returning previous work turned in for class. As a stack of papers was put in front of each individual, she would delve into our progress including information about our strengths and weaknesses. From that session in class, I was able to see areas I needed to improve.

I was too close to my work. Feedback was way more than welcome. It was becoming difficult for me to see areas that needed correcting. Yes, it is uncomfortable having something you put time into criticized, but constructive criticism is a valuable asset.

My assessment was coming to a close by my professor generalizing I’m on the right track. I felt I needed more information. I’m sure my face showed my dissatisfaction. Surely there should be more critiquing. Being lost and unsure in class, I was searching for some direction.

The teacher asked me if I had any questions. I asked her if she had any suggestions for making my work better. She smiled a little and said she used to get so irritated with teachers who just said good job. She thought they could have given some more advice. I couldn’t help but smile myself because that’s exactly how I was feeling.

Today, at USAO I learned that instructors were once students themselves. They know where we are coming from and what we deal with. I also learned it takes some outside feedback to make improvements in our schoolwork as well as our outlook.