What is the role of formative feedback in language learning?

Formative feedback plays a crucial role in language learning by offering continuous guidance and support to learners throughout the learning process. This type of feedback is designed to help students understand their strengths and areas for improvement in real-time, allowing for adjustments to be made as they develop their language skills.

By receiving formative feedback, learners can engage more deeply with the material, practice essential skills, and apply new knowledge effectively. This ongoing, constructive input not only enhances their understanding of the language but also encourages self-reflection and motivation.

In contrast, receiving grades at the end of a course does not provide the immediate support or learning opportunities that formative feedback does. Focusing solely on error correction can discourage learners if it doesn’t also highlight their progress or provide strategies for improvement. Similarly, tracking progress through standardized tests does not offer the same supportive, developmental approach as formative feedback, which prioritizes the ongoing learning journey.