We do end of course surveys as well. I also like to give the students a chance to comment on new things right after we do them. I set ground rules at the beginning of the discussion so it doesn't get out of control. It really gives me a chance for immediate feedback and suggestions.
William,
Have you tried an online survey to gather student input? Sometimes students will be more candid with their responses, when they are able to conduct a survey outside of class.
Tremayne Simpson
We here see on the average of 60 students per three week course. We try, but it is almost impossable to get the students imput that wewould like to see. We ask but sometimes its like pulling teeth. I think its important for this to happen. Students do talk, When new students here that the instructor or teacher is open to discussion it gives them a chance,in there mind, that maybe there idea or thoughts may be heard.
Yes within reason. Sometimes students want to spend more time on one topic and we do, but we still need to cover all the topics. I will assign homework for topics that aren't covered in full in class.
Gloria,
This sounds like effective methods for collecting student feedback, however a common issue with surveys is the completion-rate consistency. What methods do you/your institution, use to encourage the students to complete the distributed surveys?
Tremayne Simpson
Use of the end of term student evaluations is a good way for student opinion to be used. Also, some will discuss it with me one to one.
We allow our students to participate in every aspect of their learning. They have the end of term surveys as well as those that are offered periodically throughout the year. Students are also able to voice their opinions to the instructors, program directors and up the chain of command. It is important to us that we understand what works or doesn't work for the student and feedback is one of the best tools for that purpose.
Cindy,
I agree. Giving the students and opportunity to express their opinions, can proove to be a "teachable moment" for the instructor as well. Students can learn that their opinions are important and can be used as "change-causing" actions, within the classroom.
Tremayne Simpson
At the end of the course, student are given the opportunity to comment on the course. Their comments are usually more general and do not specifically mention the lesson plans. They usually comment on the methods of learning that are included in the lesson plans.
I always ask my students for their input. Sometimes they have some really good ideas. I think as instructors it is importand to be open to listening to our students.
Colleen,
I also use the "Democratic" process, whenever deciding class-related suggestions. In most cases, when students are given a choice, they will place an "intrinsic" value on the topic in question.
Tremayne Simpson
Yes, the student's and students' input is so important! I try to get a feel during class but also I try to meet with students on a casual basis. I want them to know that I trust them and value their feedforward! I have found that often the student will give more information when they are 1-1 with you. It is also important to show them that you will incorporate their ideas when possible and relevant!
Student input is considered. Lesson plans will always contain information that is relevant to the course.
When the class is running behind or ahead, I always have suggestions on how to proceed with the class while still meeting the objectives. I give students the various options and have them vote on what they would like to do and then go with what the majority of the class wants to do.
Yes, I'm always receptive to student comments and feedback; however, it depends on whether the feedback is constructive and a valid concern of one or more student in order for me to alter my lesson plan.
I have changed my lesson plan before due to an overwhelming group concern, and the change was a positive experience for myself and my class.
I have also made a change due to one or two students feedback, and immediately regreted the change, and revised my lesson plan to it's original form.
I think any instructor shouldn't be afraid to make a change to their lesson plan, whether it's because students suggest it, administrators suggest it, or the instructor themself changes the plan. More importantly, I think it's important for instructors to realize when the orignal plan was more than adequate and not be afraid to revert to the original plan.
Ricardo,
I agree with your comments. In addition, the survey completion rates are important for determining where adjustments/revisions should be made in the course. If only one student has a negative comment, it may be more of a concern for the individual and not a collective issue.
Tremayne Simpson
Like many schools we have an end of course survey where we ask students for positive and negative feedback.We feel it is important to know about not only negative comments but also to know what areas in the course are positive and successful.
When a problem is mentioned by a few students we assess the best way to address it, in order to fix the problem.
It is impossible to please all the students all the time, so we look at how many comments are related to one particular area and if it is warranted. we then organize the best way to fix it.This also applies for the positive feedback and if there is an area that was very succesful and we are able to apply the tecnique or idea to another part of the course , we will implement this also.
LE,
Nonverbal communication is a key factor in assessing student appreciation or concern, in regards to class operation. I agree with providing intervention strategies, whenever there is a perception that there is consensus, class concern or issue.
Tremayne Simpson
I obtain regular feedback from students through end of course surveys but I also ask people what they think about particular topics or class exercises. Especially when I am concerned that something is not working. I try to get feedback and use students as a sounding board for some possible future changes.
Carol,
Open discussion is a great format for receiving student input, however it is important that it is properly structured. It is a good idea to use a set of "standard" questions for the discussions, in order to facilitate the students' comments.
Tremayne Simpson
