Improving student feedback surveys
Student feedback on their experiences of learning is critical to improving and developing educational offerings. Dr Joanne Thandrayen (ANU) and Dr Sumaira Qureshi (UC) recently collaborated on a cross-institutional collaborative study seeking to understand the attitudes, and challenges associated with UC student experience feedback processes at the University of Canberra (UC). The study included the perspectives of both students and staff in and utilised a mixed qualitative / quantitative survey to gather data.
The research project aimed to address staff and student apathy towards the UC student experience survey and identify practical solutions for improving its effectiveness. The study sought to provide insights that would support a constructive feedback culture where students feel valued, and staff are open to feedback. A range of recommendations were developed through analysis of the collected data.
Key take aways from the study include:
Show students that feedback has an impact
The study identified that students are more willing to participate in surveys if they believe their feedback will contribute to institutional improvements. Providing clear examples of changes in teaching practices that result from students’ feedback gives student concrete assurance that constructive and actionable feedback is valued and utilised to drive improvement.
Make it easy for them to contribute
Digital platforms and mobile applications were recommended to facilitate frequent and convenient interactions between staff and students. In addition, the study indicated that student engagement with the feedback process would be enhanced by using regular reminders (such as emails, pop-up notifications on course websites), multiple submission channels (online, mobile apps, QR codes, paper-based forms) and incentives (e.g. free books, tuition fee discounts, vouchers). Interactive elements, such as polls and live Q&A, were proposed as necessary additions to the feedback structure.
Active and ongoing
The study recommended that ongoing feedback throughout the academic term would benefit both staff and students. Regular check-ins and virtual suggestion boxes on course websites were also recommended to capture real-time perspectives. The study also recommended designing tailored communication programs at the institutional level to support effective feedback between staff and students.
Dr Joanne Thandrayen, Biostatistician, National Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing Research, National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University
Dr Sumaira Qureshi, Assistant Professor in Data Science, School of Information Technology and Systems, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra
