This study compares student responses and performance after receiving two types of feedback, that provided by model answers and that provided by personal comments. In 2004 and 2005, a total of 183 students in first and honours years biology courses were provided with both types of feedback, and their perceptions and preferences were explored using a questionnaire. Questionnaire results showed that a majority of students wanted both kinds of feedback, but that there was a preference for personal over model feedback.