Classroom Feedback in the Matrix

I’ve decided to make June a month of feedback on my blog. Today I want to show you a magical tool that will take your feedback sessions to the next level. I wrote the post about the feedback teachers give to students (click!). I shared the video with the Four Riders of Feedbacalypse (click!), and now it’s time to invite your students to share their feedback!

To encourage your students to share feedback, traditional methods may seem boring and tiring, but whenever you need a change, all you need to do is reach into the Design Thinking toolbox and choose something that will add something new to the old ways you’re already using. As you know I’m a fan of Design Thinking. I already wrote about DT brainstorming process as something you may use in the classroom (click!) and reviewed one of the most important books of DT “Creative Confidence” by Tom Kelley (click!). Using the activities focused on promoting changes in educational context seems only natural. That’s why I want to take you into the world of the Feedback Matrix!

The Feedback Matrix

The Feedback Matrix is a visual framework that helps organize feedback in a structured manner. It also encourages students to engage in constructive discussions while respecting diverse viewpoints. By using the Feedback Matrix, you can facilitate collaborative feedback sessions full of active participation, critical thinking, and self-reflection. Sounds good?

Creating a Feedback Matrix

Implementing the Feedback Matrix in your classroom is really easy. Start with introducing the concept of the matrix to your students. It consists of four quadrants: “Likes,” “Wishes,” “Questions,” and “Ideas.” Each quadrant represents a different aspect of feedback (click to see the source of the material):

Now, how to work with this tool? Ask your students to look at the quadrants and explain that in this feedback process you won’t use the words like “No” or “I don’t like”. What are you going to use instead?

• Likes – Spread the Love: in this quadrant, students share positive aspects of a project, presentation, or idea. It encourages supportive environment, and allows students to acknowledge and appreciate each other’s strengths. Begin the feedback session by focusing on this quadrant. This sets a positive tone and builds confidence among students.
• Wishes – Constructive Vibes Only: this quadrant provides space for constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement. Students can express what they wish to see enhanced or modified, promoting critical thinking and identifying areas for growth. Encourage them to provide specific feedback and focus on areas where growth is possible.
• Questions – Curiosity Unleashed: in this quadrant, students can ask thought-provoking questions related to the topic or project at hand. This fosters curiosity and promotes deeper understanding. Encourage students to ask open-ended questions that promote deeper understanding and reflection.
• Ideas – Let the Magic Happen: this quadrant encourages creative thinking and problem-solving. Here, students can brainstorm innovative solutions, propose alternative approaches, or suggest new ideas related to the topic being discussed. Encourage creativity and out-of-the-box thinking.

How can you use the Feedback Matrix

• Introduce the Feedback Matrix
• Set the purpose of using the Feedback Matrix. Let students know that it’s a tool for providing constructive feedback, encouraging collaboration, and promoting growth.
• Create a safe environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas. Emphasize the importance of respecting each other’s opinions and fostering a positive atmosphere.
• Model the process by providing an example. Walk your students through the process, demonstrating how to fill in each quadrant with relevant feedback. This will help them understand the expectations and structure. Start with “Likes”, then move to “Wishes”, explore “Questions” and shift to “Ideas”.
• Facilitate discussion around the feedback received. Encourage students to respond to each other’s feedback, ask follow-up questions, and engage in constructive dialogue.
• Reflect and apply it to improve their work or ideas. Foster a growth mindset by emphasizing the value of learning from feedback.

Remember, the Feedback Matrix is a dynamic tool, so feel free to adapt and modify the process based on your students’ needs and the specific learning objectives.

Benefits of the Feedback Matrix

Implementing the Feedback Matrix in your classroom offers numerous benefits that go beyond traditional feedback methods:

• Diverse Perspectives: the Feedback Matrix creates an inclusive and diverse learning environment. Students learn to value different opinions, developing empathy and becoming collaborators.
• Critical Thinking Skills: the Matrix nurtures analytical skills, helping students identify strengths and areas for improvement. Students are encouraged to think critically and provide constructive feedback.
• Enhanced Communication: the structured nature of the Feedback Matrix promotes clear communication and active listening. Students articulate their thoughts effectively and genuinely listen to their peers, developing empathy by actively considering their peers’ perspectives.
• Ownership of Learning: Through the Feedback Matrix, students take ownership of their learning journey. It empowers them to reflect on their progress, make informed decisions, and take responsibility for their academic growth.

I believe the Feedback Matrix may become your secret weapon for taking feedback to new heights. With time and practice, you may see your students bursting with collaboration, critical thinking, and self-reflection. Is it the time to unleash the power of the Feedback Matrix and make magic happen in your classroom? I hope so.

Enjoy!