Professional and Organizational Development Network in Higher Education

 

Date of this Version

2004

Document Type

Article

Citation

To Improve the Academy: A Journal of Educational Development (20) 2; doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3998/tia.17063888.0022.009http://dx.doi.org/10.3998/tia.17063888.0022.009

Comments

License: CC BY-NC-ND

Abstract

Faculty members want feedback about ways to improve learning. Midterm assessments are more useful than end-of-term student evaluations. Not all institutions provide faculty development consultants. This chapter presents an innovative process appropriate for institutions currently without teaching enhancement centers. The Bare Bones Questions (BBQ) process consists of empathic trained colleagues facilitating students’ evaluative discussions. Students and faculty members are overwhelmingly positive about the process piloted for the past three years. Students’ suggestions can include simple changes in classroom environment or enhanced sensitivity to cultural diversity. BBQ may build intra-institutional collegiality by reducing the isolation of teaching.

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