Brave Enough To Ask
Requesting Feedback Is Simple, But Not Easy
Gathering student feedback takes an open mind, a willingness to listen, and a clear plan to act. I understand the hesitation—inviting feedback on the good, the bad, and the messy can feel daunting. Like many of you, I value reflection, and by midterm, I usually have a good sense of what’s working in my class and what might need adjustment for next semester. That’s why the idea of soliciting mid-semester feedback can feel overwhelming, like just one more thing to add to the list. But when approached with intention, it becomes an incredibly powerful tool for improving your teaching and strengthening your connection with students.
After almost a decade of using mid-semester feedback surveys in my classes, I can confidently say they’re the best way to gauge what’s working and what needs fine-tuning.
Some suggestions can be implemented right away, making an immediate difference for both students and me.
Start by keeping it simple. A quick survey with a handful of targeted questions can reveal insights without overwhelming students. Skip the long forms; a six-question survey is plenty. Ask what’s working, what isn’t, and what support they need.
Use mobile-friendly tools that compile the results into themes or charts (Google Forms are my go-to choice)—giving the added bonus saving time! Once you have their feedback, acknowledge it. Let students know you’ve read their responses, share what you’re keeping or tweaking, and explain why. Not everything needs to change, but every suggestion deserves consideration.
Balance challenge with support. If students say something is “too hard,” consider whether it’s about the rigor of the assignment or their motivation. Remind them of available resources and ask what else might help them succeed. Small tweaks like clarifying instructions, adjusting deadlines, or providing examples can make a big difference without compromising the course’s integrity.
Before Your Next Class:
Be brave—feedback isn’t always easy to hear, but it’s invaluable. Lean into those conversations, celebrate what’s working, and use their input to grow. Your students will feel seen, and your teaching will become even stronger. Try it—you might be surprised by what you learn!
Share this with your colleague who treats feedback like a gift (even when it comes wrapped in criticism), and SUBSCRIBE for bite-sized strategies delivered straight to your inbox. We're in this semester together.
