How can you give feedback to peer tutors without discouraging them?

When giving feedback to peer tutors, focus on constructive criticism. Start with positive aspects, then address areas for improvement gently. Use specific examples and offer support or resources for growth. Encourage open communication and emphasize their value. Balancing critique with encouragement fosters motivation and growth without discouragement.

When giving feedback to peer tutors, you should always set clear expectations. This is so that everyone would know what to do. You need to clearly inform your peer tutors about what you expect from them. This is so that they can try their best to meet your expectations. You also should let them know about what they should expect from you. You need to let them know what you are capable of doing and what you would be doing.

Nonviolent communication (NVC) involves expressing observations without judgment, stating emotions that arise, articulating the underlying needs, and making requests rather than demands. Start with positive observations, then address areas for improvement as opportunities to grow rather than faults. For example, you might say, "I've noticed your strong commitment to teaching, and I wonder if exploring more interactive methods might further engage students. Could we consider integrating more discussion-based activities?" This approach maintains respect and empathy, focusing on collaborative growth. It's about facilitating understanding and mutual respect, fostering a constructive dialogue that encourages tutors to be receptive to feedback.

Some students may be particularly sensitive to criticism and may perceive even well-intentioned feedback as harsh or demoralizing. The sandwich method helps reduce students' defensiveness and resistance to criticism. This approach helps students view feedback as a valuable opportunity for growth rather than as a judgment of their abilities. Sandwiching constructive criticism between layers of positive feedback makes it easier for students to accept and internalize feedback.

When giving feedback, you should be specific and timely. This is to avoid any misunderstanding. You need to be specific when giving feedback to your peer tutors. For example, you could say "You did well helping your students to solve that high-order thinking skills problem" instead of just "You did a great job". You also need to be timely when giving feedback. Don't give it when it's too late, give it when they can still have the chance to change the way they tutor. The feedback should also be given just as they finished the session. This is so that they would be able to know what they did wrong right away.

When giving feedback, you should also involve your peer tutors. Giving feedback shouldn't be a one-way street. Besides giving them the feedback, you could first ask them what they think of their own performance. If they can pinpoint their problems correctly, then you just need to give them feedback on how to rectify their problems. You should also tell them to ask questions if there is anything that they can't understand. This is so that they can clarify any questions or misunderstandings.