Online evaluations are back
March 24, 2016
For the second semester, almost all UAF courses will use the recently introduced online course evaluation system, Blue. This new system replaces the Instructional Assessment System paper forms and previously used online evaluation systems.
Detailed information on electronic course evaluation can be found at a new website, http://www.uaf.edu/inspire-us/.
The new evaluation system gives students much more flexibility. Surveys can be taken on computers, smart phones, tablets, etc. Multiple access points include email reminders, Blackboard, direct URL (https://uaf.bluera.com/uaf/) and the “inspire-us” website. Students can choose when to take the survey during an evaluation window and how long to spend. Evaluations are anonymous and confidential. Instructors still can provide class time for students to complete the survey. Students can find an instructional video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTp5f7AMmRQ.
Faculty members can customize surveys to receive feedback on specific aspects of their courses. Revised instructors' reports will allow rapid feedback and the ability to gather a wide range of data.
Survey administrators will need less time to distribute surveys and compile results. Retention of evaluation records also will change, cutting the time and effort spent transporting, copying and storing hard-copy files.
For courses ending Monday, May 2, (spring semester's last lecture day) through Friday, May 6, evaluations will open on Monday, April 18, and will end on Monday, May 2. Instructors for these courses can add personalized questions starting Monday, April 4, through Sunday, April 17.
Banner is feeding information to the new evaluation system. So, if you are teaching this semester, please check with your department administration to ensure that your course is properly listed in Banner.
Development of the new system was overseen by UAF's Electronic Course Assessment Implementation Committee. If you have questions, please visit the new course evaluation website, http://www.uaf.edu/inspire-us/, or send questions to UAF-course-eval@alaska.edu.