Course Evaluations Now Underway with New System

On Nov. 21, most students enrolled in fall classes at Utah State University received e-mails with links to a new course evaluation system (IDEA). The e-mails include the subject line “End of Semester IDEA Course Survey.” Students will receive one e-mail for each class in which they are enrolled and should complete evaluations for ALL courses.

The IDEA system replaces USU’s current course evaluation process that used paper-and-pencil evaluations.

To complete the evaluation for each class, students should click on the link in each e-mail. That link leads directly to the evaluation form. In most mail programs this appears as a blue link which can be directly clicked. If that doesn’t work, cut and paste the link into the address line at the top of the computer browser window.

Students will receive reminder e-mails every three days. Once the evaluation is completed, the reminders stop automatically.

Here is additional helpful information about the process.

What are course evaluations?

These are “bubble” forms that you fill out in class (or online) once each term near the end of the semester to provide feedback on that class.

Why are we going to a new (IDEA) system of course evaluations?

• They give students an opportunity to provide feedback about what they are learning, and how much they are learning (focusing on learning objectives)
• They provide additional information about teaching
• They are available online — no more bubble forms

OK, but what’s in it for me?

• Results of course evaluations are available to all students who participate in the process; to see these results for prior semesters, please go to this link
• Course evaluations are used to make improvements in course offerings, course content and course delivery
• Faculty use course evaluation results to make changes and improvements in their course materials and delivery, creating a better student experience
• As a student at USU you are expected to complete course evaluations

Are my responses anonymous?

Yes. All responses are kept confidential. Your instructor will be provided a report summarizing the responses of your entire class, including all written comments. In your comments, please follow USU’s Student Code of Conduct: All interactions shall be conducted with courtesy, civility, decency, and a concern for personal dignity.

I didn’t get an e-mail for one of my courses; what’s going on?

Don’t’ panic. There are some courses that will not be evaluated using the new system this fall. In those courses, you’ll still be using old paper-and-pencil evaluations. If you don’t receive an evaluation e-mail for one of your classes, you can check in with your instructor, or with your department, to see why.

I have other questions/concerns; how do I get them answered?

There is a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page available online.