ABSTRACT
This chapter shares the findings of a study demonstrating that using an appreciative inquiry (AI) lens to provide positive, constructive, collaborative feedback on teachers’ classroom performance is indeed empowering and positive for their well-being. We identified three key ways in which this approach had a positive effect on the teachers. Voice is the first theme and refers to the importance of being able to teach in self-authentic ways concentrating on areas that reflect each teacher’s unique voice and character, rather than having to adhere to an externally imposed one-size-fits-all notion of good teaching. Choice is the second theme and refers to the sense of empowerment these teachers felt by being able to determine aspects of feedback and choose pathways of practice that reflect their own strengths. Rejoice refers to a sense of positivity that emerged from being able to celebrate one’s successes, focus on strengths, and find pathways of growth that reflect one’s character strengths. In sum, findings revealed how the AI approach was empowering, giving teachers a sense of agency, an increased sense of self-efficacy, an optimistic but realistic view of their practice, and, ultimately, a higher sense of well-being throughout their teaching experience and mentor feedback process.
