Feedback Decoder: Tracking Feedback

Using a feedback tracker

Okay, you have received a bunch of feedback across several different modules: now what? As a writer, it's important that you learn how to spot trends and patterns across the comments and rubric scores that markers attach to your work. However, this can be difficult when scraps of feedback are scattered around separate files, Blackboard pages, emails, etc.

To make this process easier, we recommend maintaining a writing feedback tracker. A document like this can take whatever shape you prefer – after all, it's for your use, no one else's – but consider using one of the pre-built templates below, and then customising it as you please:

Both of the trackers include text-based instructions on how to fill them out. You can also watch the explainer video below and follow along.

Building your own tracker

If the templates provided above don't resonate with you, no worries. We all process and organise information differently, so it's a good idea to experiment until you find what works best for you. Here are some questions to ask yourself as you design a feedback tracker for your academic writing:

• What information do I need to include for the tracker to be helpful?
  • Module, assignment type, instructor's name, whether comments were positive or negative, exact rubric scores, type of writing skill it relates to, date, etc.?
  • Tip: Don't go overboard with the number of columns and data points. If your tracker isn't efficient to use...well, you probably won't use it!
• What media/file type do I prefer to work in?
  • 'Fancy' software might create a tracker that's pretty to look at, but again, efficiency and ease are key.
  • If physically writing or drawing out information helps you to process it, could a little notebook be helpful? A small sketchpad where you turn feedback into a spider diagram?
• Is being able to filter or limit the information a priority?
  • If you continue to use a feedback tracker throughout your degree, the entries will add up. Therefore, consider what tools or features might help you 'zoom in.'
  • In Excel, good options include using column filters and sorting. In Word, you might prefer colour-coding so 'like' information is apparent.

Whatever you design, don't forget to make room for positive feedback! Feedback trackers help you improve weaker areas of your writing, but they should also be spaces to celebrate strengths.