In addition, it is important to consider that two course characteristics, class size and academic field have been shown to influence ratings . The academic field of a course can also influence ratings. Humanities and fine arts classes generally receive the highest ratings followed by courses in the social sciences. Courses in mathematics, accounting, statistics, and the natural sciences generally receive the lowest ratings. With this in mind, it is very important that ratings from a number of different courses taught by the same faculty member be reviewed to reduce the likelihood of bias for or against an instructor.
Research suggests that students judge courses along several different dimensions.
In general, students do not rate courses along only a single good-bad dimension. Studies at a variety of universities, including UW-Green Bay, have identified some important dimensions that students consider when rating courses. The nature of the CCQ's seven dimensions, and the items included within each, are described below. This scale deals with matters of the instructor's organization, preparation and clarity of procedures as perceived by students. General Intellectual Development .