The Role of Student Feedback in Shaping Higher Education

A Collaborative Blog Post With Contributions from Ektaa Vadgama and Dr. Ali Ahmed; Published on January 29th, 2024

Let’s First Hear From Ektaa Vadgama and Dr. Ali Ahmed!

The Significance of Student Feedback in Higher Education: A Personal Reflection by Ektaa Vadgama – Find Ektaa Vadgama on LinkedIn

In the intricate tapestry of higher education, student feedback emerges as a pivotal thread, weaving together the diverse experiences, perspectives, and aspirations of learners and educators alike. Rooted in the lived experiences of students, my journey as a BSc graduate in Podiatry and currently pursuing a PGCert in Musculoskeletal Medicine underscored the profound importance of student feedback in shaping the landscape of higher education.

As a student pursuing Podiatry, I traversed a terrain marked by intellectual curiosity, academic rigor, and hands-on clinical experiences. Throughout my undergraduate journey, student feedback served as a compass, guiding me through the labyrinth of complex theories, practical applications, and clinical encounters. From providing insights into the clarity of course materials to highlighting areas for pedagogical enhancement, student feedback empowered me to actively advocate for my learning needs and to contribute meaningfully to the discourse on educational excellence.

Similarly, my pursuit of a Postgraduate Certificate in Musculoskeletal Medicine deepened my appreciation for the transformative power of student feedback. Engaging with a diverse cohort of healthcare professionals, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact of student voices in shaping the contours of our learning environment. From fostering collaborative learning communities to driving pedagogical innovation, student feedback catalysed a culture of continuous improvement, reflective practice, and professional growth.

Beyond the confines of individual classrooms and academic programs, student feedback serves as a cornerstone of institutional accountability and transparency. As universities and colleges grapple with the imperatives of quality assurance and student success, the voices of students emerge as powerful agents of change, catalysts for institutional renewal, and champions of educational equity. By actively soliciting and responding to student feedback, institutions reaffirm their commitment to student-centeredness, inclusivity, and excellence, thereby fostering a culture of trust, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Moreover, my journey as a student underscored the transformative potential of student feedback in shaping the pedagogical practices and professional identities of educators. As I engaged in dialogues with my instructors, provided constructive feedback, and participated in collaborative assessment practices, I witnessed the profound impact of student perspectives on the evolution of teaching methodologies, curriculum design, and assessment strategies. Through these interactions, I recognized the symbiotic relationship between student feedback and pedagogical excellence and the transformative power of student voices in shaping the contours of our educational landscape.

In conclusion, my journey through higher education illuminated the profound significance of student feedback as a catalyst for transformation, empowerment, and positive change. As we navigate the complexities and opportunities of the post-COVID educational landscape, let us embrace student feedback as a potent instrument for fostering inclusive learning environments, promoting institutional accountability, and advancing pedagogical innovation. In doing so, we honor the voices, experiences, and aspirations of students, and reaffirm our collective commitment to the pursuit of educational excellence and equity in higher education.

Dr. Ali Ahmed, Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgical Fellow – Find Dr. Ahmed on LinkedIn

It’s so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day struggles when you’re in residency, fellowship, or working. When you’re in a situation where you’re overseeing students, whether you know it or not, you are a beacon of higher education and should not be taking that responsibility lightly. I highly advocate for an accessible means of obtaining feedback from students.

Feedback Process During Residency Training

During my time in residency, for example, I established a Student Coordinator position for my program where I served as a liaison between the residency and our externs, ensuring they had all the appropriate logistics and concerns addressed as well as a space to voice questions and concerns. This position had a measurable impact on our rotating students, and by extension, our residency program and the quality of our future candidates. If you are part of a program or system that values quality education, the attention you provide to your students – and further; residents, fellows, and all colleagues – is paramount to your program and the profession at large!

Student Feedback In Higher Education – My Insights on This Topic

Higher education institutions are designed to foster learning, growth, and academic excellence; and student feedback can assist in achieving these goals. In this dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, the importance of student feedback cannot be overstated. It serves as a powerful tool for improvement, ensuring that educators, administrators, and institutions as a whole are responsive to the diverse needs and expectations of their student body.

Obtaining student feedback is crucial for improving the quality of education in higher education institutions. Remember to consider the anonymity and confidentiality of feedback to ensure students feel comfortable providing honest opinions. Additionally, it’s essential to act on the feedback received, demonstrating a commitment to improvement and student satisfaction.

12 Methods to Obtain Student Feedback

1. Surveys and Questionnaires:
   • Create online surveys or paper questionnaires to gather feedback on specific courses, instructors, or overall experiences.
   • Use Likert scales, multiple-choice questions, and open-ended questions to get a variety of responses.
2. Focus Groups:
   • Organize small focus group discussions with students to delve deeper into their experiences and opinions.
   • Use a trained facilitator to guide the discussion and encourage open communication.
3. Anonymous Feedback Boxes:
   • Place physical or virtual suggestion boxes where students can submit anonymous comments and suggestions.
   • Ensure anonymity to encourage honest feedback.
4. Mid-Semester Check-ins:
   • Conduct mid-semester evaluations to get timely feedback on the course structure, pace, and teaching methods.
   • Adjust teaching strategies based on early feedback to enhance the overall learning experience.
5. Exit Interviews:
   • Conduct exit interviews with graduating students to gather insights into their overall educational experience.
   • Use this information for long-term improvements.
   • I consistently solicit information from graduated students to attempt to continue to strengthen courses for current students.
6. Peer Evaluations:
   • Implement a peer review system where students provide feedback on group projects, presentations, or teamwork.
   • Encourage constructive criticism to foster a collaborative learning environment.
7. In-Class Feedback Sessions:
   • Set aside time during a class session for students to provide immediate feedback.
   • This can be done through quick polls, discussions, or written reflections.
8. Teaching Portfolios:
   • Encourage instructors to maintain teaching portfolios that include student feedback, reflections, and improvements made based on previous feedback.
9. Social Media and Online Forums:
   • Create private online forums or use social media platforms where students can share their thoughts and experiences.
   • Monitor these platforms for valuable insights and trends.
10. Course Evaluations at the End of the Semester:
    • Conduct comprehensive end-of-semester evaluations for each course.
    • Include questions about the course content, teaching methods, and overall satisfaction.
11. Town Hall Meetings:
    • Organize town hall-style meetings where students can voice their opinions and concerns directly to faculty and administrators.
12. Alumni Surveys:
    • Reach out to alumni to gather feedback on their experiences and how well the education they received prepared them for their careers.

Benefits of Obtaining Student Feedback

Student feedback provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of teaching methods and materials. By understanding what resonates with students and what challenges they face, educators can adapt their approaches to create a more engaging and enriching learning experience. This iterative process allows for continuous improvement, resulting in a more dynamic and effective educational environment.

Promoting Student-Centric Learning:

Students are at the heart of any educational institution, and their experiences should be prioritized. Soliciting feedback empowers students, making them active participants in their education. When students feel that their opinions are valued, they are more likely to engage in the learning process and take ownership of their academic journey.

Identifying Areas for Improvement:

Constructive criticism from students is a powerful tool for identifying areas that need improvement, whether in course content, delivery methods, or support services. This feedback loop enables institutions to address shortcomings promptly, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. By acknowledging and acting upon student input, higher education institutions can stay responsive to the evolving needs of their student body.

Fostering a Culture of Open Communication:

Encouraging students to provide feedback fosters a culture of open communication and transparency. It builds trust between students and educators, creating an environment where concerns can be voiced and addressed constructively. This open dialogue contributes to a positive and supportive learning community where students feel comfortable expressing their opinions and seeking assistance when needed.

Tailoring Educational Programs to Diverse Needs:

Students in higher education come from diverse backgrounds with unique learning styles, abilities, and preferences. Student feedback aids in tailoring educational programs to accommodate this diversity, ensuring that the curriculum is inclusive and accessible to all. This approach not only enriches the learning experience but also prepares students for the real-world challenges of navigating diverse and inclusive environments.

Preparing Students for the Future:

Beyond academic knowledge, higher education plays a crucial role in preparing students for the challenges of the professional world. Incorporating student feedback into program development ensures that graduates are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and adaptability needed to thrive in their chosen fields. This student-centric approach aligns education with the demands of a rapidly changing global landscape.

Conclusion – Importance of Student Feedback:

In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, student feedback stands is critical to ensure positive change. By valuing and actively seeking input from students, educational institutions can foster a culture of continuous improvement, adaptability, and responsiveness. In doing so, they not only enhance the quality of education but also empower students to become active and engaged participants in their learning journey. As we move forward, let us recognize and embrace the transformative power of student feedback in shaping the future of higher education.

Associate Dean and Professor at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science; North Chicago, Illinois

Leland Jaffe DPM, FACFAS