Summary of Changes to the Faculty Evaluation Process
The primary changes introduced by the faculty evaluation revisions approved in 2023 (see revised Administrative Rule 4.1201.02: Faculty Evaluation and Administrative Rule Guideline/Procedure 4.1201.02.1: Faculty Evaluation (G/P)) include:
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- Evaluation Calendar – Faculty evaluation will take place during Fall semesters (rather than in the Spring), covering materials from the previous academic year. Evaluations continue to follow a 3-year cycle, but rather than requiring most evaluation components be submitted during year 3, different components are collected each year.
- Ratings – In order to simplify and clarify the evaluation process, there will be 3 ratings under the new system (rather than the 5 used prior to Fall 2024).
- Weightings – In order to provide a more consistent and fair evaluation process, all components of the annual Summary Evaluation Form will be weighted according to common specifications across the College (currently, each department approaches this differently).
- Student Course Evaluations – In order to take into account the potential biases inherent in course evaluations without losing the impact of the student voice in the process, student course evaluations will be weighted between 20%-30% of the Overall Rating and will include consideration of the faculty response in the rating,
- Formative – The annual Summary Evaluation Form will have a greater focus on providing formative feedback through expanded use of comments.
- Self-Reflection – There is an increased emphasis on self-reflection over faculty teaching and student learning in their classes in the evaluation components.
- Adjuncts – In order to acknowledge the different time commitments expected from adjunct faculty, they will not be required to submit all of the evaluation materials required of full-time faculty (currently, those requirements are the same).
- Statement on Exemplary Teaching – In order to clarify what College expectations are for excellent teaching, we have adopted a Statement on Exemplary Teaching.
- Departmental Rubrics and Policies – In order to provide for greater transparency and clarity in the evaluation process, every department will post evaluation rubrics, weightings, and policies on a College website prior to evaluation submission.
Faculty will begin submitting materials under the revised process for the first time in Fall 2024 (to be evaluated in Fall 2025). The final evaluation under the current system took place in Spring 2024.