PURPOSE/CHARTER
The purpose of this policy is to establish a standardized process for administering student observation surveys in all credit-bearing courses. These surveys are a critical component of the faculty evaluation process, providing valuable student feedback to inform instructional practices and support continuous improvement in teaching and learning.
POLICY
Student Observation of Instruction Surveys are required for every course each academic term. The feedback collected will be used as one component of a comprehensive faculty evaluation process, in conjunction with peer reviews, self-assessments, and administrative evaluations. Surveys must be administered consistently and according to the procedures outlined by the college.
Key Responsibilities:
- Faculty: Ensure students understand the purpose of the surveys. Faculty must not be present during survey administration to encourage honest responses.
- Students: Provide constructive and respectful feedback.
- Academic Departments: Oversee survey distribution and collection processes.
- Office of Institutional Research/Academic Affairs: Analyze results and share reports with faculty and academic leadership.
SCOPE/POLICY GUIDELINES
This policy applies to all Zane State College faculty members and students across all academic departments and programs. It governs the administration, analysis, and use of student observation surveys in support of faculty development and evaluation.
Survey Administration Guidelines:
- Conducted during the final two weeks of each academic term.
- May be administered online or in paper format, based on available resources.
- Faculty must allocate class time if surveys are conducted in person.
Survey Content:
- Includes standardized questions used across all departments.
- May include department-specific questions if approved.
- Assesses clarity, engagement, responsiveness, and instructional effectiveness.
Confidentiality and Reporting:
- Responses are anonymous.
- Faculty will not receive survey results until after final grades have been submitted.
- Institutional Research compiles and analyzes survey data and provides summary reports to faculty and department chairs.
- Results are used to identify instructional strengths and areas for growth and may support professional development.
State-Mandated Questions:
In accordance with state law, each institution must include the following questions in faculty evaluations:
- Does the faculty member create a classroom atmosphere free of political, racial, gender, and religious bias? (Yes/No)
- Are students encouraged to discuss varying opinions and viewpoints in class? (Yes/No/Not Applicable)
- On a scale of 1-10, how effective are the teaching methods of this faculty member?
NON-COMPLIANCE
Violations of this policy will be treated like other allegations of wrongdoing at Zane State College. Allegations of misconduct will be adjudicated according to established procedures. Sanctions for misconduct or violations of this policy may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following:
- Incomplete or delayed faculty evaluations
- Loss of eligibility for promotion
- Follow-up review by the Faculty Evaluation Committee or administration
- Probation, suspension, or termination of employment.
POLICY APPROVAL
I have read and understand the Zane State College Student Observation of Instruction Survey Policy and Guidelines. I understand that if I violate the rules explained herein, I may face legal or disciplinary action according to applicable laws or company policy.
