Criticism generally doesn't sit well with humans. It's mainly because we prefer to be praised for our strengths rather than critiqued for our weaknesses. The process of online learning must include criticism if learners are to expand their knowledge and achieve their goals. A constructive criticism that is effective can correct learning behaviors as well as enhance their professional and personal growth. You can give your students effective constructive criticism by following these five tips.

#1- Critique and improvement should always go hand in hand.

Giving constructive criticism to your online students is primarily for improving them. Therefore, the goal of the critique should always be to provide them with learning objectives. You can also give them milestones along the way if the goal is more involved. You might encourage them to develop a plan geared towards gradually improving their study habits, for instance, if they need to concentrate on their study habits. The learners will be able to focus on the positive rather than dwell on the negative, giving them the motivation they need to move beyond the mistake.

#2- Specify as much as you can.

Constructive criticism is as vague as a lack of criticism in eLearning. If your eLearning feedback is going to be effective, you must be able to give them specific information about what they did incorrectly and how they can improve. Give learners notices of upcoming deadlines if there are deadlines associated with specific goals. 

#3- Pick your words carefully.

If you don't choose your words carefully, constructive criticism can sound more like an attack than helpful advice. You should avoid using words like "I" or "you" in general. This can make the criticism more personal. Use words such as "all of us" to make the issue seem more common and help the learner to recognize that they are not alone. Additionally, you should use uplifting and motivational language that is non-judgmental. 

#4- Start by complimenting.                                             

In eLearning, constructive criticism is one of the most challenging aspects, especially when the learner is grappling with an ongoing or significant problem. Nevertheless, it is important to start your criticism with a compliment, so that you can show that you care about your learners' eLearning experiences. It's a good idea to start your criticism by pointing out their strengths, then move on to what they can improve. 

#5- Focus on problems that have solutions.                            

People often make the mistake of giving criticism to problems that have no viable or realistic solution. A learner cannot be asked to change something about themselves that is an ingrained personality trait or to improve on something they have no control over. Rather than uplifting them and encouraging them to do their very best, this will only discourage your online learners and make them feel inadequate in some way.

Your first priority as a teacher should be finding the best methods of teaching your students. It is challenging for both new and experienced teachers to keep their students engaged in virtual classes. The best solution is to constantly upgrade your skills as a teacher by attending workshops and courses.

You can give online learners the constructive feedback they need without disappointing them by attending our upcoming webinar! Register here.