Techniques for giving constructive verbal feedback

Abstract

Background: Being involved in communication teaching and assessment requires constructive verbal feedback skills to make health professionals aware of their behaviour and how it affects the patient. These skills however need to be acquired and honed. Aim: To create an opportunity for SPs (standardised / simulated patients) and faculty members to acquire techniques for giving constructive verbal feedback. Work done: A workshop on constructive verbal feedback skills was organised at the University of Pretoria. A take-away “hamburger recipe” was illustrated, the ingredients and process resembling elements of constructive feedback. This was followed by a game, based on Jeopardy, in which given feedback and role-plays had to be evaluated and/or improved on. Teams were challenged to apply the knowledge (recipe) they gained. Results: The participants rated the workshop as a positive, dynamic an interactive fun filled experience in which they learnt how to use the “Hamburger” recipe to give constructive and positive feedback without being judgemental or discouraging. The hamburger concept was experienced as creative and the average rating for the game was 8 out of 10. Take home message: The “Hamburger” take away recipe can serve as a reminder of all elements to be included in constructive verbal feedback.