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Mini-module: Interpreting Feedback

Qualities Tutors Seek 

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What is being assessed in assignments? Tutors assess:

  • The qualities you show in your work
  • Your approach to learning

Some of the most important qualities they look for are:

  • Independence
  • Knowledge
  • Critical thinking
  • Technical competence
  • Effective working with others
  • Ethical approach

These qualities are important in all subjects, and they are the key concepts to keep in mind if you want to make progress and reach your potential at university.

Here they are in more detail:

Independence

This is the ability to manage your own learning effectively. You know what you need to do, can make your own decisions, and you have the skills to do it. It also involves reflecting on your own performance and deciding how to do better in future. It includes concepts such as:

  • Independence / Autonomy
  • Self-Awareness
  • Reflection and planning


Knowledge

This is the information that you need to learn, but especially understanding rather than just memorising. Think of it as deep learning. We also need to be aware that things are often not clear; things can be ambiguous.  It is indicated in feedback by words such as:

  • Breadth of knowledge or research
  • Depth
  • Understanding
  • Awareness of ambiguity
     

Critical thinking

This is the ability to think carefully and analyse evidence. It includes concepts such as:

  • Argument
  • Using evidence
  • Evaluation
  • Exploration
  • Clear communication
  • Relating theory and practice
     

Technical competence

 It includes concepts such as:

  • Technical skills
  • Competence
  • Accuracy
     

Effective working with others

For example:

  • Teamwork
     

Ethical approach

Showing that you are aware of the ethical issues associated with:

  • Data
  • Research