Effects of digital video-based feedback environments on pre-service teachers’ feedback competence

The present study investigates the added value of blended digital video-based feedback environments in fostering pre-service teachers’ feedback competence on teaching during a practicum. Pre-service teachers practised providing their peers with feedback on their classroom management in traditional face-to-face feedback sessions (control group, n = 65) or blended digital video-based environments with an expert present (V-Feedback+, n = 22) or without (V-Feedback, n = 16). Before and after the practicum, a video-based tool was applied that required pre-service teachers to provide written feedback to a teacher concerning fictitious classroom events. Written feedbacks were analysed by applying quantitative content analysis. Feedback competence was assessed with six categories: assessment criteria; specificity; suggestions; questions; first person; and positive/negative emphasis. This study demonstrated that digital video-based environments can elicit stronger effects than traditional face-to-face settings, especially when combined with expert feedback. Results from the pre- and post-tests revealed that V-Feedback and V-Feedback+ participants provided more specific feedback than the control group. V-Feedback+ participants provided feedback containing more high quality suggestions than the V-Feedback group. This study illustrates how pre-service teachers’ feedback competence can be fostered in teaching practicums using digital video-based feedback environments.