This month’s SPOTLIGHT ON looks at peer-led feedback at Banff & Buchan College.
Students’ Association Officers, supported by the College Student Engagement Officer, piloted class forums in the Business and Computing Sector of the College. Students commented “we like this as you can be really honest with feedback”. Staff also said “the feedback is excellent with real solutions being suggested.” This method of gaining feedback has now become regular practice in this department.
Using the Student Learning Experience model introduced at sparqs Class Rep Training, a post it exercise is carried out with the whole class. Students are asked to write positive things relating to their course and place them on each area of the Student Learning Experience. The same exercise is carried out using a different colour post it but this time students record any issues from their course. This allows all students to have a say without feeling intimidated. The issues are then discussed and students are asked to suggest solutions for the issues raised. The Student Engagement Officer compiles a report for staff to discuss at Course Team Meetings, take any necessary actions and report back to the class.
The Students’ Association compiles an electronic survey for all students to complete. They also hold focus groups during lunch times using a similar approach to above. An annual report is presented to the College towards the end of the session. This report informs the College Self Evaluation. Management report back to the SRC on changes made as a result of student feedback and “You Said We Did” notices are displayed on college plasmas.
For more information on student engagement at Banff & Buchan College you can contact Susan Gall, Student Engagement Officer, at sgall@banff-buchan.ac.uk.
