Being able to respond effectively to feedback requires us to be able switch down our emotional response. Questions such as ‘what can be learnt here’, ‘what needs to be learnt’ and ‘what are my next steps’ help us to focus our thinking on action. It also helps us to develop resilience, to take personal responsibility and to develop confidence in our abilities to make the changes we’ve identified. As young people receive feedback through their assessments, it is important that conversations are focused on what they, rather than someone else, should do to improve their learning.
This important life lesson of putting our thinking and emotional energy into those things where we have influence is described by Stephen Covey in his 7 Habits of Highly Effective People as a key to success. Growing intellectual efficacy and resilience takes time and exercise. It can’t be done by someone else.