Why did the committee recommend an online faculty course evaluation system?
The committee felt there were several advantages over the previous, paper-based system. First, the online system is significantly more efficient: it saves paper, time and money in the organization, distribution, and collection of the surveys, and in the delivery of the results. The online format also provides for a more flexible and customized version of the survey for instructors who want to use the ‘optional’ items feature to get answers to specific questions about their course. Additionally, students can now efficiently and anonymously leave written comments for their instructors to supplement the quantitative (forced-choice) items of the survey. Finally, we believe that having one centralized and automatic system for the completion of the surveys enhances the integrity of the process.
