Problem Tree/Solution tree

I asked my colleagues, "What is the biggest problem we have with assessment?" 
"Kids don't use feedback!" The answer came swift and loud.
This wasn't the problem I expected but it worked perfectly for testing out the "Problem to Opportunity Exercise" from the Center for Appreciative Inquiry.
After identifying the problem we created a problem tree. Our next step was to determine the root causes.
Why don't our students use our feedback?

• It's a learned behavior. Why?
• Because they are apathetic?
• Because they just want a grade?
• Mosts tests are either "you get it" or "you didn't get it"

We could have dug deeper, but I wanted to keep focused on the next step: What challenges are created by this problem?

• Teachers feel their time is wasted
• Less learning occurs
• Students repeat their mistakes
• Fewer students master the standards
• Grades and achievement feel disconnected

The next step was to create a solution tree that is the opposite of the problem. This problem to opportunity thinking shift allowed us to brainstorm how we could cultivate a culture in which students use feedback to revise and master skills and knowledge.
A final step allowed us to imagine the possibilities that could grow from students using feedback and revising. 
From this 10 minute or less activity we discovered that if we:

• Model revision
• Teach how to use feedback
• Build it into our instructional time
• Change how we give out grades to value feedback 

We can create a culture

• Of "try again"
• Of engaging authentic audiences
• Of students collaborating through meaningful peer feedback
  

We can create a culture that values:

• Students and teachers recognizing flaws and adapting a growth mindset
• Students having less anxiety about grades
• Students looking for feedback first and expecting that the power of "yet" means they can master standards through growth.

Asset-based community development makes so much sense in schools!