What feedback should be avoided when assessing student research?

The feedback that should be avoided when assessing student research is giving vague comments about improvement. Vague feedback does not provide students with clear or actionable information on what they can change or develop to enhance their work. When students receive unclear comments, they may feel confused about how to proceed, which can hinder their learning and growth. Effective feedback should be precise and specific, offering concrete suggestions for improvement, so students can understand exactly what areas need attention and how they can make meaningful enhancements to their research.

In contrast, constructive criticism helpfully indicates areas for improvement while also acknowledging the strengths of the work. Specific examples for enhancement provide a clear roadmap for students to follow, while encouraging peer review fosters collaboration and allows students to gain insights from each other, enhancing their learning experience.