5.5 Formal Course Evaluations

Student input is sought on a formal basis at the end of each term for evaluation of courses and the course instructor. A standard format provided by the Institute is used for each evaluation. Students are requested to complete evaluations toward the end of the semester. All Likert-scale responses are tallied into a percent response. This information is forwarded to the Program Director (or Chair of the Department) and then to the course instructor. The course instructor never sees the evaluations until after the grades have been submitted for that term.

Students may also provide written comments for both the course and instructor. The most helpful comments are those that critically and respectfully summarize the strengths and weaknesses of the course and provide supporting evidence and/or suggestions for improvement. The Program Director (or Chair of the Department) and the course instructor review pertinent written comments after all grades have been submitted.