Pre-course Surveys – University Center for Teaching and Learning

Collecting student feedback at the start of the term

Pre-course surveys are designed to collect important information about students and can be used to inform course design. They serve as an example of responsive teaching and lay the foundation for building community and creating a more inclusive, comfortable, and welcoming space for everyone. Inviting students to participate in the design of the course gives faculty the ability to assess student needs and identify course and campus level resources that might be beneficial for a new and unique set of students.

Read what Pitt faculty have to say about pre-course surveys.

Pre-course surveys are open to students one week before the term starts and remain open through the second week of class. Faculty will be able to view responses as they’re submitted and encourage more students to participate.

Instructions for Requesting a Pre-course Survey

This option gives faculty flexibility in how they collect formative feedback at the beginning of the term.

Survey Questions

Standard survey questions are automatically applied or faculty can write their own. Faculty choosing standard questions still have the option to add custom questions.

Use Results to Inform Teaching

Different from other OMET reporting practices, results will be available after at least one response giving faculty the opportunity to use feedback for discussion on day one of class and encourage more students to participate.

Pre-course Survey Timeline

Survey dates and deadlines for requesting and adding questions.

References and Suggested Readings

Read more about the importance of gathering student feedback prior to classes starting.