What is the purpose of corrective feedback?

The purpose of corrective feedback is to offer information on incorrect responses, which is instrumental in helping clients understand their mistakes and learn more effectively. By identifying errors and providing guidance on how to improve, corrective feedback serves as a valuable tool in the learning process. It allows clients to adjust their behaviors, thereby enhancing their performance and understanding of the material or skills being taught. This type of feedback is essential in therapeutic settings, as it helps clients recognize what they need to change and reinforces their progress by focusing on areas for improvement.

The feedback provided is not simply about praising correct answers, which does not actively address errors, nor is it primarily about encouraging quicker responses or distracting from mistakes. Effective learning relies on constructive criticism so clients can develop their skills more thoroughly.