Feedback: A study in growth

Learning to give and receive feedback is essential for discipleship and ministry development in God’s kingdom, explains Michelle Nunn.

In early summer, the team at Regents Theological College celebrates the end of the study year.

While some students may need extensions due to challenges faced throughout the year, most will have completed their various programmes of study.

Some will even be finishing their degree, Ministry Foundations Certificate or Master’s qualification.

Across the student body there is visible relief and excitement as deadlines are met, rhythms begin to change and summer approaches.

For Faculty, however, the season looks a little different. First come the end-of-term events, then Elim Leaders Summit, followed by the significant task of marking assignments and dissertations, along with resubmissions within university timelines.

Our team of full-time, part-time and visiting adjunct lecturers diligently read papers, provide feedback and determine grades.

In most cases, assignments are read by two members of the team – one taking primary responsibility and the other acting as a secondary marker, bringing another perspective and helping ensure fairness and consistency throughout the process.

As we mark, it is a joy to see students’ knowledge, understanding and practical application develop.

Some really embrace feedback and, as a result, steadily improve their writing, critical thinking and overall attainment.

The process of submitting work, receiving feedback and being assessed against programme rubrics reminds me that we all need the insight of others, however experienced we may be.

Learning to receive feedback is not always easy, especially if we are unused to it or wrestle with perfectionist tendencies.

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