ABSTRACT
Abstract. This report addresses two primary questions about common uses of student ratings. First, are student ratings of instruction valid measures of teaching effectiveness for evaluating college instructors? Second, are student ratings of instruction useful in improving the effectiveness of college teaching? In addressing these questions, this overview rests on detailed reviews of over 120 articles and books found by a computer search of the literature published between 1980 and 1997. The findings surveyed lead naturally to proposals for future research. Research is needed about rating instruments and other forms of student input that can support efforts to improve instruction. Research is also needed about how teachers and consultants work together to improve teaching. The types of needed empirical research are varied; they may range from carefully documented descriptive reports through controlled comparative experiments to research synthesis. The statistics profession should expand its role in aiding this important research effort.
