College Students' Evaluation of University Teaching Effectiveness: A Review of Literature

Abstract

At college and university levels, student ratings of teaching are
considered to be valuable data sources for improving t"ze teaching-learning
process, providing feedback to instructors, and evaluating teachingfor use in
persqnnel decisions, like tenure or merit salary increases. However, student
ratings are also being considered as a hindrance to tenure and an
administrative interference in academic freedom. Student ratings have not
been successful, mainly because less attention is given to the process and the
factors that affect student ratings. This paper discusses the historical context
of student ratings and its controversies and factors that influence student
ratings of university teaching: the nature of the course. the instructor, and
administration of the evaluation. Finally conclusions and recommendations
are given.