The impact of feedback training for inspectors

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore whether oral feedback by inspectors of the Dutch Inspectorate of Education is an adequate method to support the professional development of teachers in primary education. This study aims to examine the impact of short feedback training for inspectors (focused on effective feedback conversations) on feedback quality and on teachers ' feedback perception. In addition, it aims to study the relation between immediate perception and the delayed perception of that feedback.

Design/methodology/approach

In an independent sample experimental design, 15 inspectors provided feedback to 40 teachers in primary education. Nine inspectors received short feedback training (the experimental group), while six others did not receive this training (the control group).

Findings

The results indicate that feedback provided by trained inspectors can foster professional development of teachers in primary education and that short feedback training has added value. The quality of the feedback by inspectors was related to teachers ' immediate perception of the feedback and the delayed perception of the feedback.

Research limitations/implications

A limitation of this study is the small group of inspectors and the limited number of feedback conversations they could provide. Further research could be aimed at examining the impact of feedback of trained inspectors on the professional development of underperforming teachers.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to research that examines effective ways to use feedback conversations in workplace settings for the professional development of teachers.

Citation

J. Dobbelaer, M., J. Prins, F. and van Dongen, D. (2013), "The impact of feedback training for inspectors", European Journal of Training and Development, Vol. 37 No. 1, pp. 86-104. https://doi.org/10.1108/03090591311293301