6.7: Student Feedback

Criterion Overview

Students provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of a course because they experience the course from the learner's perspective. Providing opportunities for students to share feedback allows instructors to better understand what is supporting learning, what challenges students are experiencing, and where improvements can be made.

Learner feedback extends beyond evaluating the instructor. It may include feedback about course organization, learning activities, instructional materials, assessments, technology, navigation, workload, accessibility, or other aspects of the learning experience. Collecting feedback throughout the course, as well as at the end of the semester, provides instructors with meaningful information that can be used to continuously improve course design and student success.

Not every suggestion should result in a course change. Rather, instructors should thoughtfully review student feedback alongside learning outcomes, assessment results, and instructional goals to identify meaningful opportunities for improvement.

Why It Matters

Continuous improvement is an essential part of effective course design. Students often identify areas of confusion, barriers to learning, or opportunities for improvement that may not be visible from the instructor's perspective. Gathering learner feedback helps instructors make informed decisions that strengthen the learning experience for future students.

Providing opportunities for feedback also demonstrates that student perspectives are valued. When students know their experiences are being considered, they are more likely to engage thoughtfully in providing constructive feedback that contributes to improving the course.

What This Looks Like

A well-designed course typically includes:

• Opportunities for students to provide feedback during and/or at the end of the course.
• Feedback opportunities that address course design, learning activities, instructional materials, assessments, navigation, technology, and the overall learning experience.
• Clear communication explaining the purpose of collecting learner feedback.
• Feedback methods that encourage honest and constructive responses.
• Instructor review of learner feedback to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Appropriate revisions to the course based on meaningful patterns identified through learner feedback.

Students understand that their feedback contributes to improving the course for future learners.

Design Tips

Ask yourself: Do I intentionally gather and use learner feedback to strengthen my course and improve the learning experience for future students?

✔ Provide students with at least one opportunity to share feedback about their learning experience.

✔ Ask questions that focus on the course design, learning activities, instructional materials, technology, and overall learning experience.

✔ Consider collecting feedback during the semester so improvements can benefit current students when appropriate.

✔ Encourage honest, respectful, and constructive feedback.

✔ Review student feedback alongside assessment data and your own teaching reflections before making course revisions.

✔ Look for recurring themes rather than isolated comments when identifying opportunities for improvement.

✔ Share with students, when appropriate, how their feedback has informed future course improvements.