Definition
In an instructional context, information given to a learner that identifies errors, weaknesses, or areas needing improvement so the behavior or performance can be corrected. In a systems or control context, a process where the output of a system is fed back in a way that opposes or reduces the input, helping the system stay stable or return to a desired state.
Plain English
Feedback that points out what went wrong or what needs fixing, so the learner can correct it. In a system, it's a self-correcting signal that pushes back against change to keep things steady.
Context Anchor
Seen in instructor training when discussing communication, critiques, debriefings, and corrections during ground or flight lessons.
Derivation
From Latin negare, meaning 'to deny or reject,' combined with 'feedback,' which originally described output of a process being fed back into its input. In everyday speech 'negative' often means 'bad,' but in instructional and engineering use it simply means 'opposing' or 'corrective' — not necessarily harmful.
Why Pilots Care
Allows instructors to correct mistakes precisely, preventing repeated errors and building accurate, safe flying habits.
Intuition Check
Negative feedback does not mean personal criticism or discouragement here. It means useful correction about a specific action, answer, or decision.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor offered negative feedback on the student's flare technique, noting the nose was raised too late on landing.
Example Sentence 2
During the post-flight debrief, negative feedback on the flare helped the student land more consistently.