Providing constructive feedback is a foundational part of effective teaching, and how it’s delivered can make a profound difference on a students’ learning journey. Positive and constructive criticism encompasses a form of feedback that highlights strengths while addressing areas for improvement. Ultimately, it is essential for helping students grow both academically and personally.
Research consistently shows that positive criticism boosts motivation and encourages a growth mindset, especially among younger students. According to the Australian Psychological Society, feedback that emphasises progress and effort rather than purely results helps students develop resilience and persistence in their studies. When students receive feedback that recognises what they’re doing well and gently redirects where they need to improve, they’re more likely to engage with challenging tasks. As a result, they view educational activities as opportunities for growth rather than threats to their self-worth.
Positive criticism also helps build strong student-tutor relationships. When tutors create a supportive environment, students feel more comfortable taking risks, asking questions, and experimenting with new ideas. This confidence not only strengthens their grasp of the material but also fosters a sense of belonging and commitment to their education. By acknowledging each student’s unique strengths, tutors can guide them towards achievable, personalised goals, which is particularly valuable in diverse classrooms.
For tutors, balancing praise and constructive suggestions can enhance students’ critical thinking. Instead of just pointing out errors, tutors can frame criticism with open-ended questions that prompt students to reflect, such as, “How might you approach this differently?” or “What could make this solution even stronger?” This approach helps students develop problem-solving skills and reinforces the notion that feedback is a tool for development, not judgment.
To summarise, incorporating positive criticism into everyday teaching can make a transformative impact. It fosters not only academic growth but also the confidence and resilience that students will carry forward into future challenges, both in and beyond the classroom.
Emily Mackay
