Course evaluations don’t just happen—they’re most effective when instructors set the stage for meaningful student responses. While it’s easy to think of them as just another end-of-semester task, a little preparation can lead to higher response rates and more useful feedback.
Whether it’s setting expectations, fine-tuning evaluation questions, or using SmartEvals’ tools to maximize participation, a well-prepared approach makes a big difference. Here’s how you can get ready before evaluations open.
1. Talk to Students About Evaluations (Before They Start!)
Students are more likely to complete evaluations—and provide thoughtful responses—if they understand why they matter. The best way to ensure this? Tell them before evaluations open!
What to Cover in Class:
✔ Why their feedback is important – Let students know that their input helps shape future course improvements.
✔ How past feedback has led to changes – “Last semester, students asked for more real-world examples, so I incorporated case studies this term.”
✔ What kind of feedback is helpful – Encourage students to be specific (“Instead of saying ‘I liked this class,’ try ‘The in-class discussions helped me understand the material better.’”).
🔹 Tip: Take five minutes in class to explain the value of evaluations. A little transparency goes a long way!
2. Set the Right Tone for Honest Feedback
Students may hesitate to be fully honest if they feel evaluations are just a formality. Creating an open and welcoming atmosphere helps encourage constructive responses instead of generic ones.
Ways to Encourage Honest Feedback:
✔ Remind students that evaluations are anonymous – This makes them feel comfortable sharing real thoughts.
✔ Ask for feedback informally during the semester – A simple “How’s the pace of the class?” can show that you value student input.
✔ Reassure them that all feedback is useful – Let students know that both positive and constructive comments are helpful for refining the course.
By setting a positive, feedback-friendly culture, you’ll get responses that are more thoughtful and actionable.
3. Use SmartEvals to Personalize the Experience
SmartEvals offers several features that let instructors take control of the evaluation process, making it easier to gather insights tailored to your teaching style.
How SmartEvals Helps:
📌 Custom Questions – Add your own questions to gather feedback on specific assignments, teaching methods, or course materials.
📧 Direct Email Reminders – Personally reach out to students who haven’t completed their evaluations to encourage participation.
📱 QR Codes for Easy Access – Display a QR code in class so students can complete evaluations on their phones in seconds.
🔎 Pro Tip: Customize questions to get feedback on areas you’re actively working to improve—this makes evaluations more valuable!
4. Plan a Time for Students to Complete Evaluations
One of the simplest (yet most overlooked) ways to boost response rates? Give students time to complete evaluations in class.
Students get busy. Emails about evaluations get buried. But if you set aside just 5-10 minutes at the start or end of a class session, completion rates can skyrocket.
Best Practices for In-Class Evaluations:
✔ Let students know in advance – Give them a heads-up so they come prepared.
✔ Provide a direct link or QR code – Make access as simple as possible.
✔ Step out of the room (if possible) – Some instructors leave briefly to reassure students that their responses are private.
Even if evaluations are online, treating them like an in-class activity encourages participation while showing students that you value their input.
5. Follow Up with a Thank-You Message
Students are more likely to engage in future evaluations if they feel their feedback was valued. Once evaluations close, take a moment to send a quick thank-you note.
📧 Example Email:
“Hi everyone, I just wanted to say thank you for taking the time to complete your course evaluations. Your feedback is important, and I appreciate your insights. Wishing you the best on your finals!”
A simple thank-you reinforces a culture of feedback—and it takes less than a minute!
Final Thoughts: A Little Prep Goes a Long Way
Preparing for course evaluations isn’t complicated, but a little effort before they open can lead to higher response rates and more useful feedback. By setting expectations, creating a welcoming atmosphere, using SmartEvals’ tools, and dedicating time in class, you’ll ensure that students provide meaningful insights that can genuinely enhance your course.
With the right approach, evaluations become more than just an end-of-semester requirement—they become a powerful tool for growth and improvement.
Ready to make course evaluations work for you? SmartEvals makes it easy. Let’s get started!
