7. RECEIVING CONSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK
Receiving constructive feedback about a performance or visual art piece is a regular part of any arts instruction. Visual arts, for example, has a culture of group critique, where children are encouraged to share and talk about each others’ work.
Children learn that feedback is part of learning and it is not something to be offended by or to be taken personally. It is something helpful. The goal is the improvement of skills and evaluation is incorporated at every step of the process. Each arts discipline has built in parameters to ensure that critique is a valuable experience and greatly contributes to the success of the final piece. This is an invaluable skill to develop, because when children become adults, they will be evaluated in their workplace and must take that feedback as constructive and not as a personal attack. Most arts disciplines are collaborative in nature.
Through the arts, children practice working together, sharing responsibility, and compromising with others to accomplish a common goal. When a child has a part to play in a music ensemble, or a theatre or dance production, they begin to understand that their contribution is necessary for the success of the group. There are no small parts, only small actors! Through these experiences children gain confidence and start to learn that their contributions have value even if they don’t have the biggest role. In a work environment this skill is essential, as companies always want employees who are team players.
DEVELOPING SKILLS IN RECEIVING CONSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK
HOW WILL YOU KNOW?
• They ask for feedback about something they are doing
• They listen to the comments without interrupting
• They are honest with themselves and accept areas that need improvement
• They are not defensive and are grateful that someone has taken the time to help them develop
