Student Evaluations Of Online Classes Versus On-Campus Classes

Abstract

Some schools have reported that student evaluations of teaching for online/Internet classes are significantly lower that the evaluations given for traditional/on-campus classes.  While many institutions appear to use the same (or similar) rating forms for online and on-campus classes, some people question the validity of using forms designed for on-campus classes to evaluate online classes. 

The authors of this paper contend that the same general characteristics of effective teaching apply equally to online and on-campus courses.  However, students in online classes interpret these factors differently when evaluating the instructor (e.g., the relative importance of the instructor's oral versus written communication skills is different in online versus on-campus courses). 

Specifically, this paper identifies ten factors that are frequently measured by student evaluation forms: (1) Knowledge of the Subject, (2) Communication Skills/Ability, (3) Enthusiasm for the Subject, (4) Encouragement of Student Participation, (5) Rapport with Students, (6) Fairness in Grading, (7) Timeliness in Providing Feedback, (8) Organization of Class, (9) Adequacy of Textbook and Other Learning Materials, and (10) Instructor's Preparation for Class.  The paper then discusses the differences between how online and on-campus students may interpret these factors when completing student evaluations.  The paper concludes with suggestions for improving student evaluations of online classes.