Feedback Fruits tool; evaluating its effectiveness in supporting Advanced Clinical Practice students formative assessment

Abstract

Session overview:

The LJMU MSc Advanced Clinical Practice (ACP) programme begins with the core module Underpinning ACP, which focuses on self-directed personal development for both apprenticeship and non-apprenticeship students. This module aligns with the NHS England (2017) multi-professional framework for advancing practice and the IfATE (2018) knowledge, skills, and behaviours for ACP, catering to a diverse group of Level 7 students. To enhance formative assessment, the team piloted Feedback Fruits, an AI tool designed to standardise feedback and improve processes, aligning with LJMU Strategy 2030's emphasis on digital tools for learning. The pilot included a multi-layer feedback approach incorporating AI-generated feedback, student self-assessment, and academic tutor feedback. Student feedback revealed a clear preference for human-generated feedback from tutors, followed by self-assessment, with AI feedback being least valued. Staff reported mixed experiences, citing potential benefits but also challenges with usability and increased complexity within the Canvas platform. Despite these challenges, the pilot demonstrated that while AI tools can support formative assessment, human feedback remains most valued. Moving forward, prioritising academic feedback while incrementally integrating AI tools may improve assessment processes and student satisfaction, ensuring a balanced, student-centred approach to feedback delivery.

Key learning points from this session:

Attendees may take away key messages regarding the the challenges of AI integration into formative assessments, the value of human feedback and the importance of balancing technology with human interaction.

Feedback Fruits tool; evaluating its effectiveness in supporting Advanced Clinical Practice students formative assessment poster, Only LJMU staff and students have access to this resource.