This is an article in the "Blended training activities with LearningStone" series of the LearningStone blog - for trainers who want to get more out of their learning environment.

Why feedback is so difficult

Giving feedback sounds simple, but in practice, people stumble over the same things: too vague, too personal, or simply too late. As a trainer, you know that one exercise in the room is not enough. Participants need repetition, a safe environment, and a model that provides guidance. Fortunately, you can expand the learning space - far beyond the training day.

Three models of many

There are many feedback models that you can provide as a structure. The 4G-model helps participants formulate concretely and non-confrontationally. The OEN method emphasizes asking questions rather than judging. It SBI-model (Situation, Behavior, Impact) is compact and widely used in international settings.
See below for more!

Video as the start of the course timeline

Start the online learning environment with a short video in the LearningStone course timeline. This could be a YouTube clip about giving feedback, or your own recording in which you explain one of the models. This way, participants arrive at the training already prepared, and you don't have to build up the theory entirely in a classroom setting, although repetition is always good. You attach a progress marker to it - "Have you watched the video?"  or “How are you planning to use this?” - so that you, as the trainer, can immediately see who is ready for the session.

Class practice: roles and rounds

Use a classic role-playing structure in the room. Work in groups of three: one person gives feedback, one receives, one observes and then gives feedback on the feedback. Switch roles after each round. Use one of the models as a discussion card. Practicing as a whole class is powerful because the trainer can provide immediate guidance and the group dynamics can be used as learning material.

Practicing after the training via a dialogue

After the training day, the real work begins. Ask participants to share a real-life situation via a dialogue in LearningStone. They describe what was going on and how they gave or received feedback. You or fellow participants respond with further elaboration or a thought-provoking question. Unlike an email, a dialogue in LearningStone is well-organized, easy to reread, and linked to the group space where all learning materials are located.

Submit reflection via Docs or a logbook

Do you want participants to write a short reflection? Have them upload a document to their personal folder or a group folder in DocsThat folder is only visible to the participant and the trainer  -  a safe place for honest self-reflection. You can also create a logbook using the form generator or use an example (add a form to the course timeline and you will find the examples at the top).

Feedback on feedback: the wall 

For a somewhat more playful approach, you can use the LearningStone Wall. As a trainer, post a short case description - a situation in which someone is giving feedback - and ask participants to respond with how they would handle it. Everyone sees each other's responses and can build upon them. This way, you practice feedback language in a low-threshold environment, and participants also learn from each other's phrasing.