Students benefit when faculty teach them how to receive - and use - solicited feedback. The following points are good reminders. Feedback:
- Provides an opportunity to learn and improve;
- Can sometimes be hindered by our emotions - we need to recognize and let others know if we are unable to listen actively at that time;
- Is more effective if we listen and avoid defensiveness, explanations or justifications;
- Can be enhanced by paraphrasing information received and checking for our clear understanding of comments given;
- Does not necessarily mean we have to agree with it and change our behaviour;
- Can involve asking for ongoing support to change our behaviour;
- Is a gift from those giving solicited feedback.