For students studying education at university, learning effective methods of assessment and feedback is essential. One such approach that has gained popularity for its simplicity and impact is the “3 Stars and 1 Wish” method. This strategy is particularly useful in classroom settings where constructive feedback is needed to encourage learning and development while maintaining a positive and supportive atmosphere. Here, we’ll explore what this method entails, why it works, and how you can implement it in your future teaching practice.
What is the “3 Stars and 1 Wish” Method? 
The “3 Stars and 1 Wish” technique is a framework for providing balanced and constructive feedback. It involves identifying three positive aspects (the “stars”) of a student’s work or performance and suggesting one area for improvement (the “wish”).
This approach is rooted in positivity, ensuring that feedback highlights strengths before focusing on areas for development. It’s a simple yet effective tool for helping students understand what they are doing well and what they could do better, without overwhelming them with criticism.
Why is it Effective? 
- Builds Confidence: Starting with three positives ensures that students feel valued and recognized for their efforts. This boosts their self-esteem and encourages them to continue engaging with the learning process.
- Creates a Supportive Atmosphere: The balance of positive reinforcement with constructive criticism fosters a growth mindset, motivating students to strive for better results without fear of failure.
How to Use It in Practice 
Here’s how you can apply the “3 Stars and 1 Wish” method in your teaching:
- Observation and Evaluation: Carefully review the student’s work or performance. Take note of specific strengths that stand out and identify one area where they could improve.
- Give Feedback in Order:
- Star 1: Highlight something they excelled at (e.g., “Your essay structure is clear and easy to follow”).
- Star 2: Point out another strength (e.g., “Your use of evidence to support your argument is excellent”).
- Star 3: Offer a final positive note (e.g., “Your conclusion ties your points together effectively”).
- Wish: Suggest an area for improvement (e.g., “You could work on integrating more diverse perspectives into your analysis”).
- Encourage Dialogue: Allow students to ask questions or reflect on the feedback. This can lead to a deeper understanding of their strengths and areas for growth.
- Adapt for Peer Feedback: Encourage students to use this method with their peers. It’s a great way to build a collaborative learning environment while teaching them how to give and receive constructive feedback.
Examples in Educational Contexts 
- In Writing Assignments:
- Star 1: “Your introduction is engaging and clearly outlines your main argument.”
- Star 2: “You used strong, specific examples to support your points.”
- Star 3: “Your grammar and sentence structure are excellent.”
- Wish: “Consider adding more depth to your analysis in the second paragraph.”
By practicing this method during your university training—whether in peer assessments, group projects, or classroom simulations—you’ll develop the habit of giving balanced feedback that motivates and inspires. Remember, feedback is not just about correction; it’s about fostering confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning in your students.