Introduction
In the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) system, tutor comments on assignments are a vital form of feedback for learners. Since learners do not regularly meet their instructors, these written remarks become an essential tool for support, guidance, and learning enhancement. This post explores different types of tutor comments used in ODL and highlights which comments most effectively help learners construct their knowledge.
The Role of Tutor Comments
Tutor comments serve multiple purposes, including:
- Providing feedback on performance
- Clarifying doubts and correcting misunderstandings
- Encouraging learners to reflect and improve
- Guiding further reading and learning
Types of Tutor Comments in ODL
1. Evaluative Comments
These comments assess the correctness, accuracy, or appropriateness of the learner’s response.
- Example: “Good attempt, but your explanation of the concept of motivation needs more clarity.”
- Purpose: Helps learners identify what they did right or wrong.
2. Descriptive or Diagnostic Comments
These comments describe the learner’s performance and diagnose specific issues.
- Example: “You have listed the steps correctly, but you missed explaining how they are applied in real situations.”
- Purpose: Helps learners understand the gap between expected and actual performance.
3. Prescriptive or Suggestive Comments
These comments provide suggestions for improvement or further study.
- Example: “Please revise Unit 3 for better understanding of this topic.”
- Purpose: Guides learners towards improvement and deepens understanding.
4. Motivational Comments
These comments aim to encourage and motivate learners to continue their efforts.
- Example: “Great effort! Keep it up. You are improving well.”
- Purpose: Builds learner confidence and keeps them engaged.
5. Personalized Comments
These are written keeping in mind the learner’s specific challenges or strengths.
- Example: “You have improved a lot since your last submission. Well done! Just pay more attention to formatting your answers.”
- Purpose: Makes the learner feel valued and seen as an individual.
Effective Tutor Comments for Knowledge Construction
The comments that truly help learners construct knowledge share the following characteristics:
1. Constructive Feedback
- Rather than simply saying “wrong answer,” a tutor should explain why it is incorrect and what the correct approach is.
- Helps learners reflect and make corrections actively.
2. Balanced Comments
- Combining positive feedback with constructive criticism maintains motivation while promoting improvement.
3. Dialogic Feedback
- Comments that ask questions or invite responses promote critical thinking.
- Example: “What other theories could also explain this behavior?”
4. Scaffolded Suggestions
- Step-by-step guidance on how to improve an answer helps learners build their knowledge gradually.
Example Scenario
Student Answer: “Education is important because it gives jobs.”
Unhelpful Comment: “This is incorrect. Try again.”
Helpful Comment: “While education can lead to employment, try to also explore how it contributes to personal development, critical thinking, and societal progress. See Unit 2 for more ideas.”
Conclusion
Tutor comments are not just corrections—they are tools for learning. Evaluative, descriptive, prescriptive, motivational, and personalized comments each serve a purpose. However, the most impactful comments are those that engage the learner, guide them to the correct understanding, and encourage reflection. In the ODL system, effective tutor feedback plays a key role in ensuring learner success and knowledge construction.