Student survey shows satisfaction

Improvement shown in instruction, advising

A survey of KU undergraduate students conducted every two years since 1996 shows a steady and growing satisfaction in the education they are receiving at KU, according to the latest survey results.

The university conducts the scientific survey of its students to measure their educational experience and the university’s performance in various aspects of college life, such as the quality of teaching and advising.

In the 2004 survey conducted this spring, KU students gave their highest ratings in instruction, advising, intellectual challenge and overall educational experience.
The students also reported steady improvement over time on the helpfulness of faculty outside the classroom, the English-speaking ability of instructors and the process for developing a course schedule. Of particular note is the finding that seniors in roughly 39 of the 40 courses that make up most degrees have no problems with the English proficiency of their instructors.

The results support the independent 2004 Project DEEP, or Documenting Effective Educational Practice, report released this spring which commended the university for placing strong emphasis on the quality of its undergraduate teaching and learning. The report also praised KU as an “engaging public research university” and noted that “many other colleges and universities will benefit from learning about KU’s policies and practices.”

“There is an open, positive relationship between students and faculty characterized by respect and genuine appreciation,” the DEEP report said.

The Student Perception Survey is administered by telephone. The survey was developed by a committee of measurement specialists from each of the six Kansas Regents institutions.

Highest ratings from 2004 student survey
• Instructors providing effective instruction
• Helpfulness of academic advising
• Opportunities for intellectual challenge
• Overall educational experience