They give a general gauge for the course, but the process is still imperfect and the results can be misleading. If a student does not fill in a choice for the review, the score is automatically entered as a zero. This default can create misleading results, said Jack Rice, associate vice provost for academic affairs. He said students should take the evaluation seriously. However, when choosing their classes, students should look at the workload of classes instead of basing their enrollment decisions solely on assessments.
Student evaluations are an important component of the review process, but it's only one aspect.
Peer evaluations and the teachings of the course should also be considered. Beginning fall term 1999, evaluations will include two new questions that were approved by the University Senate. With the inclusion of these scores, Cowling said, students will have more course information at their disposal. The addition of these questions should prove useful to students.