This is a preliminary report on a study investigating the effectiveness of self-grading Excel spreadsheets as a feedback tool in STEM education, particularly focusing on their impact on student learning outcomes, engagement, and satisfaction. By providing students with instant feedback on assignments, these self-grading spreadsheets are intended to enhance students’ understanding and mastery of mathematical concepts. The study gathers student feedback to explore their perceptions of how these tools influence their learning process, confidence, and comprehension in mathematical contexts. Giving students the tools they need to develop confidence is critical to their self-efficacy and performance. Additionally, this research identifies and addresses the challenges of designing and implementing self-grading assignments, offering insights into best practices for integrating technology-driven feedback tools in STEM education. Preliminary findings suggest that self-grading spreadsheets may serve as a valuable resource in promoting active learning, with implications for improving student engagement and satisfaction. Student quotes on the positive effects for their learning from the assignments, obtained via in-semester surveys and end-of-semester course evaluations, will be shared.

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