2.4 Considerations for Feedback

Feedback is a crucial component of the learning process, especially in scenarios that involve productive failure. As mentioned in section 1.2.2 Experiential Learning, productive failure allows learners to make mistakes and learn from them, fostering deeper understanding and retention of knowledge. Effective feedback guides learners through mistakes and supports their learning journey.

There are several types of feedback that can be used in learning scenarios, each serving a specific purpose.

2.4.1 Reinforcing Feedback

Reinforcing feedback is given when a learner selects the correct answer, and the feedback affirms the correct answer, perhaps also explaining why the answer is correct. This type of feedback reinforces the learner’s understanding and confidence in their knowledge, and can be useful for encouraging learners to continue applying their knowledge accurately. Think of it as your GPS confirming that you’re on the right route, and that you’re heading in the right direction.

Note that you might not use reinforcing feedback so explicitly, or you might choose to use it only sparingly throughout your scenarios, or perhaps just for beginning learners who need more encouragement. Sometimes, the consequences unfolding in the desired way (or, the lack of an undesirable consequence happening) can be a more realistic or authentic way of letting learners know they are on the right track. 

2.4.2 Corrective Feedback

Corrective feedback is provided when a learner selects an incorrect answer which aims to correct misunderstandings and guide the learner towards the correct solution. It is essential for helping learners recognize their mistakes and understand why their answers were incorrect.

Corrective feedback can be delivered in various ways, including:

• Limited Branching (or “Nudge-to-Correct”): Learners are guided through a series of steps with limited options for deviation. If a mistake is made, the learner is directed back to the correct path, ensuring they understand the correct process. This is like your GPS only showing you certain routes because it knows that others are less desirable and if you go off track, it will nudge you back to these routes (see also 2.2.1 Consequences for Wrong Answers)

• Immediate Failure and Restart: Learners are immediately redirected to the beginning of the task when a mistake is made. This repetition reinforces the correct approach and helps solidify the learner’s understanding. This is like restarting a journey (perhaps in a video game!) instead of just resuming from where you ended (see also 2.2.1 Consequences for Wrong Answers)

• A Few Consecutive Wrong Answers: Allows learners to make a few mistakes in a row before providing corrective feedback. This helps them recognize patterns in their errors and learn from them – Tucker describes this as delayed feedback with delayed consequences. This would be like ignoring your GPS because you think you know a route, or at least the direction of travel, only to lose your way and then look at the navigation tool.

2.4.3 Immediate Feedback (As-Needed, As-Requested)

Immediate feedback ‘as-needed’ is a type of corrective feedback provided when a learner selects an incorrect answer and requires immediate correction to prevent further misunderstanding. This type of feedback is essential in scenarios where it is crucial to address mistakes promptly to ensure the learner stays on the right track because, as branching expert Christy Tucker describes, “…it lets them learn from the feedback and adjust.” Immediate feedback as-needed can be useful in high-stakes or complex learning scenarios where errors can lead to significant misunderstandings. It pulls the learner ‘out’ of the story, but it keeps them on track (immediate feedback for immediate consequence). This is like your GPS recalculating your route when you take a wrong turn, ensuring you get back on track quickly to reach your destination.

Immediate feedback ‘as-requested’ is provided in the form of hints or guidance when a learner seeks assistance. This type of feedback empowers learners to take control of their learning process and seek help when needed. It encourages a proactive approach to learning, where learners are not afraid to ask for clarification or assistance. Immediate feedback as requested can be delivered through various means, such as hints, prompts, or additional resources that guide the learner towards the correct answer. Imagine it as subtle wayfinding signs for attractions and parks, providing helpful guidance without being intrusive, unlike a GPS.

2.4.4 Conclusion

Incorporating effective feedback into learning scenarios requires thoughtful planning and consideration. Depending on the learners’ goals and needs, a mix of the feedback strategies above, along with complimentary instructional designs, can be employed at different decision-making points in the branching scenario to help learners understand the consequences of their choices and learn from their mistakes. This anticipatory planning requires higher instructor effort in setup but has lasting impact on delivery and lowers the monitoring requirements during the course.

Overall, feedback helps learners reach their learning destination, whichever branches or paths they choose.