Course Evaluation

For individual lectures, take 2 minutes at the end of class for students to write down 1) What is the most important point you learned in class today? and 2) What is the main unanswered question you leave the classroom with today? The responses can be reviewed and discussed in the next class meeting.

Schedule a session with someone at the TRC to discuss the course while it is still in session.

Request a mid-quarter evaluation (visit and class interview) by TRC personnel to get feedback.

Or do your own. Ask students to write down (anonymously) what they appreciate most about the course, and what they would like changed. If you are trying something new, ask them about that.

Ask students to make suggestions for improving the course "next quarter" or "next year." This relieves some of their anxiety about appearing critical.

If a lecture or presentation does not work, make a note to revise it.

Discuss teaching concerns with colleagues.

Visit classes of exemplary teachers. Contact the TRC (trc@ucdavis.edu) for suggestions.

Have yourself videotaped and view it either alone or in a confidential consultation with someone from the TRC.

Invite a colleague who is an excellent teacher to visit your class and offer suggestions for improvement.

Conduct end-of-quarter student evaluations, using a combination of closed- and open-ended items. See item lists.

If you have tried something new, or used a different textbook, address these in the end-of-quarter evaluation.

Use the Dean Witter fund take a few students to lunch and discuss your course.