Collecting feedback from your students half-way through a course can provide valuable information regarding student learning experiences and perceptions. This information can be used to make informed decisions and adjustments to support student learning.
Three Reasons to Conduct a Mid-term Evaluation
It indicates to the students that you care about their experience and success.
It provides you specific feedback empowering you to make adjustments during the course (vs. end-of-course evals, which only enable you to make changes for future classes).
By discussing themes/trends in the feedback with your students, you get a more precise idea of your students’ concerns and suggestions. This dialogue allows you to communicate your willingness to listen, and you can explain your reasoning as to why you may not be able to make certain changes. It’s a win-win for both you and your students --you gather helpful information that may lead you to make adjustments that enhance learning; students feel heard and come away with a better understanding of your course structure or assignments. Together, these may result in greater student achievement and better final course evaluations for you.
Keep it short and simple.
Consider using at least one or more open-ended questions. These often provide specific information that you may not think to ask or that may help you understand student perspectives.
Assure anonymity. Anonymous surveys allow you to collect honest, useful information to help you make adjustments or address concerns.
Use a digital survey tool, especially if you are conducting a hybrid or online course. Find examples and how-to guides for survey tools on our Mid-Term Course Feedback Resources page.
For synchronous (hybrid or on-ground) classes, consider providing 10-15 minutes of class time for students to complete the survey. For asynchronous online classes, allow 3-4 days, since students may not be checking in every day.
Tell students you value their insights and strive to provide them the most effective learning experience.
After you receive the feedback, consider what it means for your course. Reflect on changes you can make; consider your rationale for not making some requested changes.
At your next class meeting, bring a list of comments and suggestions you’d like to discuss with your class. If your class doesn’t meet synchronously, explain these in a course posting, news item, or email. Your effort will indicate to students that you take their feedback and comments seriously. Explain what changes you plan to make and any that you cannot make, including your reasoning.
Always communicate that your students’ success and learning is your number one priority.
Articles on Conducting a Mid-Term Evaluation
Explore the following tools and how-to guides for surveying your students quickly, remotely, and anonymously:
Explore the following tools and how-to guides for surveying your students quickly, remotely, and anonymously:
Sample Questions to Collect Mid-Term Course Feedback
Three Question Survey (Start/Stop/Keep)
Two Question Survey
(In addition to some of the general sample questions, the following may be helpful in evaluating hybrid classes).
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