VI. Participant will demonstrate knowledge and skill in providing feedback to trainees.

4. Providing Feedback After an Observation:

• Focus on skills that can be improved. Recommendations for improvement should be focused on areas the trainee has the control and ability to improve.
• Use descriptive and nonjudgmental terms. In giving feedback use terms such as "something to work on" instead of terms like "wrong, bad, poor" to describe performance. In pinpointing weak areas of performance be specific (i.e., "You are repeating cues" as opposed to "You are having difficulty with cues").
• Focus on a limited number of critical issues. If the trainee is having multiple problems select one area to give feedback. Generally mention the other areas but restrict your comments and treatment to the one problem area. Remember, the goal is to shape behavior, not make the experience aversive. If the trainee has done an exceptional job, you should give recommendations that would apply to a more advanced or sophisticated educator.
• Review the instrument prior to observation. This familiarizes them with what you will be looking for. Using an observation form adds objectivity to the observation and the feedback.
• Refer to instrument when providing feedback. Allow them to see the observation form as you give feedback.
• When you are finished with your feedback ask the learner if they have any questions or comments. This provides the learner an opportunity to ask for clarification of things that were covered in your feedback or they want additional information or suggestions.

3. During an Observation | VII. Evaluate Your Training