DL Course Evaluation Summaries for Summer 2005

Overall analysis of student course evaluation summaries as prepared by faculty teaching distance courses. The results were presented to DL Steering Committee members for discussion of distance program improvements, and action as needed,

What went well in Distance Learning Classes

1.        Students-liked the course being mapped out.

2.        The availability to work at their own pace.

3.        Flexibility to interact by e-mail and schedule.  Communications between students.

4.        Save gas and travel time.

5.        The bulletin board was a big plus helped lead class discussions.

 

What was problematic or should be improved

 

1.        Too many surveys to complete and work to complete in a summer session.

2.        The face-to-face interaction.

3.        Setting up discussions.

4.        Home computer problems. Students level of technology.

5.        Answering questions and concerns quick enough.

6.        Links often did not work.

7.        Test bank conversion.

8.        Students unaware of Financial Aid opportunities or processes.

9.        Make the syllabus more clear especially due dates.

 

Planned changes for future delivery of course, based on students' feedback

  1. Make sure instructions are clear that surveys are optional.
  2. More chat room sessions for students who prefer contact.
  3. More face-to-face interaction
  4. Learn more about the WebCT features.
  5. Check links more often.
  6. More assignments that make students interact and respond.
  7. Help get students cheaper materials.
  8. Use Impatica for voice over for PowerPoint’s.

Biggest adjustments required for distance instructors

  1. The face-to-face interaction.
  2. The individual level of feedback.
  3. More time for course preparation.
  4. Policy about attendance especially to online discussions.  
  5. Expectations of students that faculty is 24/7 like course material.
  6. Make sure in the summer session that you are available.
  7. Sometimes instructor feels they are teaching one-on-one rather than as a group.

Level of student services, DDEC, and instructor support

 

  1. Always good support no matter the type of assistance.
  2. Professor needs to be more knowledgeable about the level of support.
  3. The support was quick and very effective when contacted.
  4. The support was outstanding.