Welcome to the Modern Classrooms Project Podcast. Each week we bring you discussions with educators on how they use blended, self-paced, and mastery-based learning to better serve their learners. In this episode, Zach Diamond is joined by educators Jerod Brown and Dan Ronchak to explore the art of effective feedback in a Modern Classroom setting.

Together, these educators discuss various aspects of providing feedback, both verbal and written, sharing valuable strategies and tools.

Here are the key takeaways from this podcast:

• Feedback as a Nurturing Relationship: Zach emphasizes the importance of framing feedback as a way to nurture students' growth rather than simply correcting mistakes. By providing positive feedback and reframing errors as opportunities for improvement, teachers can create a more supportive learning environment. Zach states, "Feedback is not about pointing out what's wrong; it's about helping students improve."

• The Power of Non-Corrective Feedback: Jerod highlights the value of non-corrective feedback, such as highlighting what students are doing well. This approach encourages students to build on their strengths and fosters a more positive attitude toward feedback. Jerod reminds us to "Reframe the conversation around the tracker from who's good and who's bad to what's working and what's not."

• Utilizing Technology: Dan discusses the use of technology tools like Google Classroom grading tools, pacing trackers, and voice recording apps (e.g., Moat) to provide feedback effectively. These tools enable teachers to streamline feedback processes and engage students beyond the classroom.

In summary, effective feedback involves a nurturing relationship, non-corrective feedback, and the strategic use of technology tools to empower students on their learning journey. These insights underscore the importance of feedback as a means of growth and progress in a Modern Classroom.

Discussion questions for PLC and PD: 

• How can educators shift their mindset to view feedback as a tool for nurturing students' growth rather than merely pointing out mistakes? What strategies can be employed to provide more constructive and encouraging feedback in the classroom?

• In what ways can non-corrective feedback, which focuses on highlighting students' strengths, be integrated into teaching practices? How might this approach positively impact students' motivation and self-esteem in the learning process?

• Technology tools like Google Classroom grading tools, pacing trackers, and voice recording apps offer new ways to provide feedback efficiently. How can educators effectively leverage these tools to enhance the feedback process and engage students beyond the traditional classroom setting? What challenges and benefits might arise from using technology in this context?

Our Host

Zach Diamond studied Music History and Theory at Oberlin College and received a Masters of Music in Music Education from Boston University. He taught music for five years in Lima, Peru, and is currently a Middle School music teacher at DC International School, a language-immersion school where he teaches in Spanish. He began implementing the Modern Classrooms Model in the 19-20 School Year and enthusiastically continues his work with the organization as a mentor and podcast producer.

Our Guest: Jerod Brown, Dan Ronchak

Connecting with Jerod: Jerod can be found on Twitter at @JerodBrown_

Connecting with Dan: Email Dan at ronchak@colheights.k12.mn.us

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