A new system: in-class or by email
10 June 2025
Since January, AUC has been using a new platform called Evalytics for course evaluations. Over the past few months, we have become more familiar with the system and how it works in our context. As a next step, we are launching a pilot in the June term to test two changes: a shortened version of the questionnaire and the option for students to complete evaluations in class using a QR code.
The aim of these changes is to explore whether these adjustments can lead to higher response rates and more meaningful feedback. Improving the evaluation process is part of our broader effort to strengthen quality assurance and ensure that student input continues to inform teaching and curriculum development.
The most major changes you'll notice include:
A shorter evaluation
When researching what motivates students to complete a course evaluation, one of the key requests was to have a shorter questionnaire. Now that a more flexible system is in place, we’ve reduced the amount of questions from 43 to just 23. Lecturers may also now add up to 3 course-specific questions.
Accessing the evaluation in class (via QR)
Lecturers have been asked to devote time for completing the evaluation during one of their final classes. To make this process even easier, lecturers will provide you with a code to directly access the evaluation from your mobile phone or laptop.
If you aren't present to fill in the evaluation during class, you will receive an email from "UvA Q Studentfeedback" where you can access the form after the teaching period ends on 27 June. The evaluation period will then close on 6 July. You can read the complete instructions for completing course evaluations via the link below.
Course evaluations are a key part of improving education at AUC. Your feedback is read by your lecturer, discussed with colleagues during peer reviews and used to make changes for future versions of the course. The Heads of Studies and the Director of Education also review the evaluations and lecturers’ reflections to assess the quality of majors and the Academic Core. Their findings are reported to the Board of Studies, which reviews both evaluations and comments to recommend improvements to the programme.
A high response rate helps us to more accurately understand what is working and where improvements are needed. Your input directly contributes to better courses for you and future students. The courses you are taking now were shaped by feedback from previous students and you can see the impact of that feedback in the course adjustment section of your course manuals.
Your feedback on the new course evaluation system is also highly appreciated! You can pass your comments on to the Student Council or email Celestine Leah (AUC's Education Development Officer).