Critical Feedback Statements

​Colleagues,
 
Yesterday, I tried to convince you to watch a coaching video. If you want more, want to a laugh, and have 3:46, you can check out Key and Peale’s sketch entitled “If We Treated Teachers Like Pro Athletes.” If you are short on time, jump to 1:40 and watch the teaching highlight of the day!
 
Thirty years ago, I took a coaching class that emphasized providing 10 positive feedback statements for every one critical feedback statement.
 
A positive feedback statement tells someone what they did correctly and ties it to a positive outcome. “You measured each ingredient carefully and the cake has excellent texture and taste.” Positive feedback reinforces good technique.
 
A critical feedback statement points out something that was done incorrectly and suggests a correction that will lead to a different outcome. “You added the salt twice, resulting in a salty cake. By putting away each ingredient after its use, you can eliminate that problem and make a tasty cake.” Critical feedback helps people replace poor techniques with better ones.
 
Negative feedback is a generalized comment on an undesirable outcome. “This cake tastes awful.” Negative feedback undermines motivation and does nothing to improve performance.
 
For the rest of this week, try providing as much positive feedback as you can. Go overboard, just for fun. Always be as specific as possible. Something good might happen.
 
Do good and be well,
 
Frederick