What type of feedback is most beneficial for refining teaching practices?

Specific feedback from student evaluations is most beneficial for refining teaching practices because it directly reflects the students' experiences and perceptions of the instruction they receive. This type of feedback provides insights into what aspects of the teaching are effective, which areas may need improvement, and how students engage with the material.

Since students are the primary recipients of teaching, their evaluations can highlight specific instructional strategies that resonate well or those that may not meet their learning needs. This information allows educators to make targeted adjustments to their teaching methods, content delivery, and classroom management practices, ultimately enhancing student learning outcomes.

In contrast, general peer reviews tend to focus on overall practices and may not address particular issues students face. Feedback from school administrators, while important, may not capture the nuanced experiences of the students in the classroom. Informal conversations with parents can provide valuable insights, but they often reflect parental perspectives rather than the direct learning experiences of the students. Therefore, student evaluations offer the most actionable and relevant feedback for refining teaching practices.