Course Evaluations
Course evaluations allow students to provide structured feedback on their learning experience. This feedback plays a critical role in improving teaching effectiveness, refining course design, and strengthening academic programs.
Purpose of Course Evaluations
Course evaluations are designed to:
- Improve instructional quality and classroom engagement
- Help faculty refine course content and teaching methods
- Support ongoing curriculum development across programs
Student feedback is an essential part of maintaining high academic standards and enhancing the overall learning experience.
Evaluation Process
Each course evaluation includes:
- Six quantitative questions rated on a 1–5 scale
- Three qualitative questions with open-ended responses
These questions assess both instructional effectiveness and the overall course experience.
When evaluations open:
- Students receive an email invitation
- A notification appears in Canvas
Supporting Student Participation
Faculty play an important role in encouraging strong response rates. Recommended practices include:
Allocate Time During Class
Set aside time for students to complete evaluations. This leads to higher participation and more thoughtful feedback.
Share the QR Code
A term-specific QR code is distributed via email. Sharing this code provides students with quick and easy access.
Monitor Response Rates
Track participation through the Faculty Evaluation Dashboard:
Steps:
- Go to your course in Canvas
- Click “Faculty Response Rates”
- Select the course you want to view
Accessing Evaluation Results
Evaluation results are available through both downloadable reports and the Blue by Explorance platform.
Evaluation Data Files
Course evaluation data is organized into an Excel file showing all courses taught in the last 5 years.
- Full-Time, Master in Finance, Master in Management, Evening, Weekend and PhD course evaluation data may be accessed here. The evaluations file is updated after grades are processed for September term and 50-unit courses, and no later than week 2 of the following quarter for all full-quarter courses.
- Executive MBA course evaluation data may be accessed here. Evaluation data is updated after all grades are processed.
- Business Undergraduate course evaluations are managed by the central University Registrar’s Office; the questions differ from Booth’s. The evaluation file is updated in week 2 of the following quarter and may be accessed here.
Accessing Reports in Blue
Follow these steps to view or download your evaluation reports:
Step 1: Log In
Access the Blue platform at https://my-uchicago.bluera.com/ and sign in using your university credentials.
Step 2: Go to Reports
From your dashboard, navigate to the “Reports” section.
Step 3: Select Your Course
Locate and select your course or project.
Step 4: View or Download
Choose from available report formats:
- Summary Report
- Detailed Report
- PDF download or data export (if enabled)
Understanding Evaluation Reports
Evaluation results reflect the average of all student responses for each question.
The questions are:
- Excluding class sessions, estimate the average number of hours per week spent in preparation or review.
- Please review and evaluate the instructor on the following:
- Overall, did the instructor convey the course material clearly?
Overall, did the instructor convey the material in an interesting way?
- Please review and evaluate the course on the following:
- Did you take away useful tools, concepts, and/or insights from this course?
How much did you get out of this course?
- Would you recommend this course to other students?
Note: Most questions use a 1–5 scale, except for time spent, which is reported separately.
Using Evaluation Results
Course evaluations are most effective when used consistently to inform improvements. Faculty are encouraged to:
- Review results soon after they are released
- Identify patterns and trends across courses and terms
- Apply feedback to course design and teaching strategies
Ongoing engagement with student feedback supports continuous improvement and enhances the overall learning experience.
Need Help?
For questions about course evaluations or access to reports, please contact:
Booth Registrar’s Office
BoothRegistrar@lists.chicagobooth.edu