Evaluation Forms: Effective Method for Gathering Feedback

At most universities, student ratings of courses are required. This is due to a variety of reasons. Gathering evidence on teaching helps departments make informed decisions related to tenure, retention and promotion. Requesting student to complete evaluation forms sends the message that effective teachers are a clear focus.

Evaluation Forms for Improved Performance

The most important function of evaluation forms is to provide the instructor with feedback that can be used to directly improve performance. Instructors can refine their methods to provide students with better learning experiences. Therefore, evaluations play a positive role in enhancing the climate of teaching and learning.

While evaluations show instructors what they are doing right and wrong, actually making the necessary changes can be difficult. Many instructors do not know exactly how to revise their methods to improve learning. Additionally, it can be confusing when attempting to reconcile contradictory statements or weigh comments in relation to scaled criteria. Click here for website with free evaluation forms

The best way to implement student feedback is through consultation with colleagues. A secondary opinion can be extremely useful when interpreting open ended or opposing viewpoints. For evaluations to lead to change, instructors must reflect on their goals and beliefs related to the course. Reflection on subject matter and learning processes is necessary when attempting to make improvements with feedback from evaluation forms.