7 Instructor Benefits of Mid-term Course Evaluations

In our last course evaluation post, we examined the differences between early/mid-term assessments and end-of term evaluations. While this information is top-of-mind we want to focus on the benefits of mid-term evaluations for instructors. Today’s post outlines seven instructor benefits of mid-term assessments including obtaining quality data and improving end-of-term evaluations.

Mid-term evaluation instructor benefits:

1. Early feedback:

   Mid-term evaluations allow instructors to obtain information during the course. Gathering data early provides instructors with the necessary feedback to make course improvements to the benefit of current students.

2. Gauge expectations:

   These evaluations enable instructors to learn about student expectations and perceptions on the course, curriculum and teaching approach. Instructors can then compare student expectations with their own objectives and make any adjustments.

3. Be proactive:

   Obtaining early feedback empowers instructors to be proactive and enables them to quickly respond to student concerns. Mid-term evaluations can help remedy problems, which previously may have remained unresolved until end-of-term.

4. Quality data:

   The data collected in mid-term assessments tends to be more qualitative and descriptive. According to research, students who completed in-course evaluations included comments more frequently (82%) compared to students who evaluated at the end-of term (62%).

5. Open dialogue:

   Mid-term evaluations allow instructors to receive feedback directly from students without any filtering. This creates an open channel of communication and encourages students to actively participate in the development of the course.

6. Teaching effectiveness:

   Gathering feedback during the course gives instructors the chance to reflect on their current teaching practices. Instructors can use the feedback to enhance their teaching approach and pursue professional development opportunities if required.

7. Improving end-of-term evaluations:

   As we mentioned in the last post, mid-term feedback can help improve end-of-term results. Giving students the opportunity to share feedback early can increase their engagement with the course and with evaluations. Making improvements during the course can lead to positive end-of-term evaluations, as any issues have already been resolved.