The basic process for course evaluations remains the same as in the past and instructors are expected to reserve time in class for students to complete them. The primary difference this year is that students will complete them electronically using the AEFIS system – paper copies of the evaluations are no longer available. The system is mobile friendly, so they can use a phone, laptop or other device of their choice. Nearly 100% of WSB students have their own laptop, notebook, or phone to use for their evaluations.
AEFIS (Assessment, Evaluation, Feedback & Intervention System) is an online tool for creating, distributing, and managing digital course evaluation surveys. At UW-Madison, it is primarily for conducting end of semester and midterm course and instructor evaluations.
The following is a brief review of how AEFIS integrates with courses:
- As an instructor, you will receive an email notification three days before evaluations are sent to students. Departments may also send out midterm evaluations for some or all of their courses. Midterm surveys are usually sent out to students between weeks five to seven of the semester. You will receive an email notification three days before midterm evaluations are sent to students.
- Students will also receive an individualized email with a link to the evaluation, although they can access it via their Student Center, too.
- When the instructor's message is received, please communicate to students that the course evaluation process will occur in class at a planned future date. Please ensure the students understand that a device (smartphone, tablet, laptop) is required for that session.
- It is important that the evaluation be conducted during class time, typically devoting 10 minutes to the process. This is a best practice to capture the highest yield rates.
- The evaluation typically is live for one or two weeks, depending on the length of the course. If a student is absent for the class period when evaluations were completed, the student will receive a reminder email every 3-4 days either until they complete it or the course evaluation period is over.
- Typically two weeks after grades have posted, the instructor will get an email from the AEFIS service with instructions for accessing your evaluation results.
- Online classes will be evaluated as they always have been.
Please remind/encourage your students about the importance of filling out the evaluations.
Campus KB articles about AEFIS:
- How to AEFIS - Viewing Survey Results
- All AEFIS articles