Primary K-3 Best Modes of Feedback

1st Observation

In primary grades teacher observation is very vital for student learning. Observing student allows for instant feedback and interaction with students. When student are just beginning the learn through watching so it is just as easy for a teacher to watch to see if the student can complete the assigned activity. Through observation teachers can observe where in the learning process students are. Observation also allows to instant correction and redirecting students. In primary grades centers are a large part of instruction. Students work on independent or group activities which allow the teacher more time for observing behaviors, and learning. Disadvantages to observations are that they can be subjective and time consuming.

2nd Questioning

In primary grades teacher questioning allows the teacher to interact with students. Chin & Langsford (2004) states questioning students increases their critical thinking skills, and can influence level of student thinking. Questioning allows a teacher to see what a child is thinking, and allows the teacher to make assumptions as to the level of ability in the child answering the question. A disadvantage to questioning is that teachers must have a working knowledge of open ended questioning skills and higher level questioning skills. Teachers need to have knowledge of the key verbs for a variety of levels in Bloom's Taxonomy or Marzano's Levels of Thinking Skills to effectively trigger critical thinking.

3rd Homework

Slade (2001) mentions that effective use of homework allows teachers to monitor student progress, while it give instant feedback as to whether a child is comprehending what is being taught. When children begin school, even in kindergarten they begin getting homework. Homework is used as a review of the material covered in class and by going over it allows the teacher to see whether or not the student is getting the concept. A big disadvantage to homework is that in some cases homework may be done by parents or with parent assistance, this then does not allow the teacher to correctly assess the students learning and understanding.

4th Individual Student Conferences

Individual student conferences allow teachers and students to interact in a one on one setting. With this one on one,