TIPSters, I am on a committee that will be reviewing our policy and
practices for student evaluation of courses. Information and advice would
be appreciated, including comments about what's done where you are, what
instruments you use, how the information is used, research on this topic,
etc. (Actually, I'd love to hear from lots of TIPSters so if you just have
time to tell me what's done where you are and what kind of institution it
is, that would be great.)
Currently, we use a short paper-and-pencil instrument with multiple choice
and open-ended questions that is given to students in class during the last
week of a course. (I personally think it's an awful unvalidated unreliable
instrument so if you use one that is psychometrically sound I'd love to see
it). For instructors, adjuncts, and pre-tenured professors, every course is
evaluated this way. After tenure, professors (or is it courses? not clear)
are evaluated every five years. Our dean wants to switch to a system of
evaluating all courses every year. Our committee gets to review our current
practices and the dean's suggestions and make a recommendation.
Thanks for your help,
Nathalie
*****
Nathalie Coté
Assistant Professor of Psychology
Belmont Abbey College
100 Belmont - Mt. Holly Road
Belmont, NC 28012
(704) 825-6754
