Marking and giving feedback

In order to provide meaningful feedback to students it is essential to understand:

• the purpose of assessments in a particular module
• what the assessment criteria are, and how they are applied
• how marks or grades are arrived at

It's important to recognise that feedback is a two-way process. Whether given formally, in writing, in response to a particular assignment, in personal tutorials or even in more casual encounters with students, good communication is essential if feedback is to be easily understood and used to improve future performance. 

Whilst large class sizes clearly militate against more personal approaches to giving feedback, there are other ways in which a sense of dialogue can be established and maintained, and the 'Quick feedback techniques' section gives brief details of some of these. Implementing self and peer feedback activities for formative assessment can also be helpful in establishing an active approach to learning among students. 

A session on "Marking and Giving Feedback" is included as part of the Learning and Teaching in Higher Education programme.