Feedback from lecturers is invaluable – it very specifically describes how you can achieve a HD next time! I would recommend reading through the feedback, and then making a clear list of what they’ve suggested could be improved.
– Ari Moore, Writing Mentor
1. Interpret the feedback
Try to determine exactly what the marker is commenting on:
- What are the expectations set out in the unit learning outcomes and assignment marking rubric?
- What is the structure of your writing or the language you have used?
- How have you used your sources, including the way you have referenced them?
If you are unclear about the feedback that you received, make sure you speak to your unit chair, lecturer or tutor to clarify either in class, via the unit discussion forum or via email.
2. Analyse and apply what you have learnt
Identify specific areas that you may need to address in your next assignment:
- How can I improve my sentence structure?
- Am I showing adequate evidence? Enough analysis?
- Am I making my paper easily digestible for my reader?
- Am I providing too much or too little information?
- Do I need to pay more attention to my references?
Keep a log of the comments you receive for various assignments – are there common issues that you need to address in your writing? Once again, review this log of feedback so that you can incorporate this feedback into future assignments.
3. Talk it out
It really helps to discuss your feedback with someone else – it could be a classmate or a friend and Study Support can also help you do this. Study Support offers writing mentors, maths mentors and language and learning advisors who can help you to interpret and review your feedback.
4. It's nothing personal
It is important not to take feedback as personal criticism. Lecturers mark thousands of assignments and their end goal is not to point out your mistakes but instead it is to suggest ways to improve your writing. Keep an open mind. At the end of the day, your teachers want to see you getting the best marks you can.
5. Build on your strengths
Don’t forget any positive comments made by your marker. Know your own strengths and build upon them.
It is your responsibility as a learner to respond to feedback – no one is going to force you to act on it! Why not see this feedback as your ticket to academic success? Then you will be sure to make the most of every piece of feedback you receive.
-- Tips from Ari Moore and Barkha Agicha, student writing mentors