Well it's almost here! The "GO LIVE" date for the improved SmarterMeasure is this Thursday, May 17th.  The first two webinars have been huge hits and we are gearing up for our final training session tomorrow at 10:00 am CST.  To register click here.  If you cannot attend you may click this link to view a previous session - https://vimeo.com/41931212 - password protected 2NewSM2012.  Below are a list of key points to remember about the enhancements and updates.

Suggestions

• Join SmarterMeasure google groups for the latest news and updates - http://groups.google.com/group/smartermeasure
• Read the newsletter – Thinking Smarter (emailed monthly)
• Update your SM contacts – go to admin panel, click manager account, click contacts
• Use the Account Requested Data and add your own questions
• Modify the custom texty on the login screen for students.

Reminders

• If you’d like us to update your new custom user interface – email julie@smarterservices.com
• Go Live date – May 17th
• Update your SM contacts – go to admin panel, click manage account, click contacts
• All tutorials will be updated later this month.
• Assessments replaces terminology test taker groups
• Assessment groups replaces terminology admin group
• Click the Account Manager icon for more details about how we can best assist you to get the most out of SmarterMeasure
• There will be no downtime associated with the enhancements
• SSO access will not be affected by the new enhancements
• With SSO we still do not allow for custom questions at this time
• Readiness Alerts will pull from the past 30 days, and shows the most recent 50 most assessments.

SmarterMeasure Enhancements Key Points to Remember

What system or tool does your school use for end of course evaluations? Many schools have used paper and pencil surveys for years, although current trends show that many schools are now switching to online evaluations.  While some schools began experimenting with online evals in the early 1990's, it has taken off in recent years.  Going online allows schools to have mobility in delivery, provide real-time results, boast great flexibility, and most importantly provide data in a useable format.  SmarterSurveys is just one of the many tools available online that allows schools to automate the data collection process.

Unfortunately one drawback to switching to an online solution is schools tend to suffer lower response rates. Initially this may be as much as 30% at some institutions.  Many skeptics are quick to use this as proof that the old fashioned way is the only way to get good data.   However, research does indicate that while response rates may be initially lower, the actual student feedback correlates almost exactly with no statistically significant differences.  

Schools that have a strong implementation plan in place and spend time and resources to educate their students about the evaluations tend to see a gradual increase in the response rates over time.  Using campus wide marketing campaigns including notifications in common areas, student government meetings, and faculty testimonies, schools can be proactive to increase participation.  Reminder emails are also recommended while the survey is open and seem to be most effective when coming from individual faculty members when possible as well as from school officials.

Another opportunity for schools to increase response rates is to implement mid-term course evaluations.  In theory students perceive their opinions are valued more highly and faculty may be more willing to make adjustments midterm based on their recommendations or suggestions for improvement.  Many schools are trying this with controlled groups to determine the impact.  In particular with motivated faculty who are willing to promote the survey.

Another indicator of response rates is incentivizing participants.  Incentivizing students through ipad or prize drawings has not shown to yield high returns in responses; however, allowing faculty members to offer bonus points or tie completion of the survey to the final grade has fared much better. 

As you research the best choice for your school, please consider SmarterSurveys. We provide an exceptional tool, outstanding service, and include consulting services.  We provide insight about how to establish the best plan for adoption at your institution based on your needs and challenges.  To learn more click here.

End of Course Evaluation Poor Response Rates

SmarterMeasure™ learning readiness indicator student readiness report includes a full list of remedial resources for support that correspond with each area of the assessment.  We recently launched a new feature that allows current clients to customize the remedial resources.  Allowing schools to keep our resources and add their own gives each school flexibility and more control over what their students receive.  For more information on how this new feature works, watch this video tutorial or contact your Account Manager.

New SmarterMeasure™ Feature

According to our records, yesterday SmarterMeasure usage hit an all time high.  Over 4,360 students took SmarterMeasure in a 24 hr period.  Find out more about our usage statistics by going to SmarterMeasure.com.  You can view the "Usage Statistics" by scrolling to the bottom of the home page.

SmarterMeasure All Time High Usage

Did you know that we have a real-time counter on the SmarterMeasure website?  It shows the number of students who have taken SmarterMeasure from all time, this year, this month, and today!  Check it out at SmarterMeasure.com!

Did You Know?