These four scenarios explore the impact of communication skills on feedback to a student on placement. In scenario 1 the clinical educator tells the student his view of the session. The feedback is clear and specific but not constructive. The clinical educator does not acknowledge what the student has done well. He doesn't use positive body language and fails to interpret the student's body language while giving feedback.
In scenario 2 the clinical educator's message is not clear and the student is left wondering what was the point of the feedback.
In scenario 3 the clinical educator is positive but time poor and does not dedicate time to provide feedback to the student.
In the final scenario the clinical educator has excellent communication skills and the feedback session goes well. The process is a facilitated discussion where the student is engaged and reflects on her performance.
