Effective Communication Strategies to Boost Course Evaluation Response Rates

Getting students to participate in end-of-semester course evaluations can be tough, but it’s essential for universities to gather feedback that helps improve the overall academic experience. Communication plays a key role in increasing response rates, and universities that market their evaluations effectively to students are more likely to receive valuable insights. As part of our response rates series, here are 10 tips to help you engage students and boost participation through effective communication and marketing strategies.

1. Integrate Evaluations into your institution’s LMS
   Students spend a significant amount of time in the university’s Learning Management System (LMS). By integrating course evaluations directly into the LMS (e.g., Canvas or Blackboard), you ensure that students can easily access them without extra steps, making it convenient and visible.
2. Pop-Up Reminders
   Pop-up notifications within the LMS can serve as a gentle nudge to remind students about pending evaluations. These reminders can appear when they log in, prompting them to complete evaluations before proceeding with their coursework.
3. Single Sign-On with Google or Amazon
   Allow students to use their existing Google or Amazon accounts to access the evaluation system through single sign-on (SSO). By simplifying the login process, universities reduce barriers to participation, increasing the likelihood that students will take part.
4. Text Message Reminders
   Most students check their phones constantly, making text message reminders an effective way to encourage participation. Include a link to the evaluation in the text for easy access, and use friendly language to engage students. Evaluation providers like SmartEvals have even seen as much as a 23% boost from SMS reminders.
5. Posters, Banners, and Flyers Around Campus
   Physical marketing remains an effective strategy, especially in high-traffic areas like dorms, libraries, and cafeterias. Use posters, banners, and flyers with eye-catching designs to remind students to complete their evaluations.

1. TV and Radio Commercials
   Leverage campus media outlets such as TV and radio stations to broadcast reminders. These messages reach students who may not regularly check their emails or engage with other digital communication channels.
2. Host Giveaway Events
   Everyone loves prizes, especially college students! Encourage participation by hosting events that offer incentives, such as entering students who complete evaluations into a raffle for bookstore gift cards, tech gadgets, or other desirable items. Incentives can be a powerful motivator.
3. Integrate Evaluations with To-Do Lists
   Integrating evaluations into students’ LMS to-do lists keeps them top of mind. Students are more likely to complete tasks that appear on their list of assignments, making this an effective reminder.
4. Reduce the Number of Questions
   Shorter surveys are more likely to be completed. Keep evaluations concise by focusing on the most important questions, ensuring that students don’t get overwhelmed or frustrated with a long process.
5. Release Survey Results
   Transparency is key. When students see that their feedback leads to meaningful change, they’re more likely to participate in future evaluations. Consider sharing aggregated survey results to demonstrate that student input is valued and acted upon.

Communication is essential when it comes to boosting response rates for course evaluations. By using a variety of communication channels—both digital and physical—universities can ensure that students are aware of the importance of evaluations and motivated to participate. Implementing these strategies will not only improve response rates but also enhance the quality of feedback collected, ultimately benefiting the university and the student experience.