Gathering Feedback From Learners with Kate Semerenko

Teacher Educator Kate Semerenko talks about the important role learner feedback has in helping us develop our courses, materials and teaching practice. Kate shares how to gather feedback and how best to implement it.KEY TALKING POINTSImportance of Collecting FeedbackKate highlights the importance of collecting feedback from learners throughout the course rather than waiting until the end. She emphasises that gathering feedback helps in understanding learners’' needs, improving teaching practice, and ensuring learners feel comfortable and valued.Creating a Safe Space for FeedbackKate suggests creating a safe atmosphere in lessons where learners feel comfortable expressing their feelings and opinions. By encouraging open dialogue and assuring learners that their feedback is valued, teachers can create a conducive environment for constructive feedback.Ways to Collect FeedbackVarious methods for collecting feedback are shared, including anonymous surveys like Google Forms, reflection at the end of lessons or courses, and informal one-on-one chats with learners. These approaches provide opportunities for learners to share their thoughts and feelings openly.Implementing FeedbackKate suggests analysing feedback, identifying actionable changes, and creating an action plan for implementation. She emphasises the importance of implementing changes gradually, monitoring their effectiveness, and seeking further feedback to ensure continuous improvement.Building Trust and DialogueThe episode closes with a discussion about the importance of conveying feedback changes to students, fostering trust, and encouraging ongoing dialogue. Teachers can strengthen teacher-student relationships and create a supportive learning environment by building a culture of open communication and demonstrating responsiveness to feedback.ABOUTKate is a CELTA and Delta-qualified EFL professional who has been teaching English for more than 10 years. She’s taught general English to all age groups in one of the biggest English schools in Ukraine. She's experienced in preparing students for international exams and in creating modular courses, such as literature and soft skills for teenagers. Kate has also trained and mentored teachers through facilitating practical workshops.Kate now works as a freelancer and helps teachers become their better selves by sharing her experience on Instagram, providing consultations and observations, and designing specific courses and workshops for teachers.Follow Kate on Instagram at kate_the_teacherTRANSCRIPTWatch with closed captions.SUPPORTSay thanks with coffee.JOIN OUR EVENTSUpcoming lives and workshopsCREDITSProducer Laura WilkesEditor Haven TsangThanks to our brilliant guest, Kate Semerenko. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.