What type of feedback is most effective for student learning?

Immediate, specific, and habitual feedback is highly effective for student learning because it allows learners to understand their performance in real-time and make necessary adjustments right away. This type of feedback provides clarity on what has been done well and what areas require improvement, enabling students to engage in deeper learning.

When feedback is immediate, students can connect the feedback directly to their actions, reinforcing correct behaviors and misconceptions while they are still fresh in their minds. Specific feedback helps to pinpoint exact strengths and weaknesses, making it easier for students to take actionable steps toward improvement. Regular, or habitual, feedback ensures that students receive consistent guidance, fostering a growth mindset and promoting continuous progress.

In contrast, the other options lack the immediacy and specificity that are crucial for effective learning. Delayed and generic feedback may not resonate with students as it can confuse them about what exactly they need to change. Occasional praise for effort does not provide constructive information about their performance and may lead to a superficial understanding of their learning. Feedback based on peer comparison can create unhealthy competition and diminish individual learning goals, which may deter students from pursuing personal growth.