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Mid-Module Feedback

Mid-module feedback enables students to reflect at the mid-point of each module. It gives staff insights that they can act on right away to enhance their module and support students.

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Mid-module feedback

Our commitment – Collecting mid-module feedback is an effective way to understand how students are experiencing the course and make timely adjustments. Every student should have the opportunity to feedback on their learning experience of each module and should have that feedback responded to before the module ends. 

Each module, or unit of learning (for non-modular courses), is required to have a mid-module check-in as detailed in the Student Feedback Policy

Mid-module feedback is run locally, with the format and approach chosen by module leaders or the academic unit. These need to be:

  • focussed on the module or unit of learning.
  • brief ‘temperature checks’ capturing a snapshot at the mid-point of teaching the module.
  • run at an appropriate point, when students have had sufficient teaching on the module to reflect upon, and there is time to address students’ feedback and make adjustments.
  • distinct from the format and approach of the student surveys.

When introducing your mid-module feedback exercise, you should make students aware of the purpose of this, and that you will use it to make timely changes that can benefit them.

Back to Basics 3 step process

The Back to Basics 3 step approach offers flexibility around how to gather and respond to feedback whilst providing an essential reflective tool and record of feedback which is necessary for internal and external governance purposes.

Work through the steps below to develop and deliver your approach to mid-module feedback.

Step 1 – Gather Feedback

Choose how to gather feedback, choose a method that provides an opportunity to review the student feedback later.

  • Online Surveys: Use tools like MS Forms, Padlet, Vevox, Jotform and Canvas to ask students mid-module feedback questions.
  • Stop, Start, Continue: This method asks students to provide feedback on what they think should be stopped, started, and continued in the module to improve it.
  • In-Class Discussions: Timetable small group discussions or a whole-class conversation, this method encourages immediate and interactive feedback.
  • Quick Polls: Conduct quick polls during or after class sessions using tools like Mentimeter or Poll Everywhere. These methods can provide instant feedback.
  • Written Feedback: Ask students to write down their thoughts on what is working well and what could be improved. This can be done on post-it notes or through an online platform.
  • In class – with written follow up by email so those who aren’t there see it.
  • Canvas announcement.

 Choose no more than six questions, keep the questions concise and focused.  Please find suggested questions here. 

Step 2 – Respond to Feedback

Summarise feedback and identify any immediate or future actions.  Share a summary and any action with students:

If students provide mid-module feedback that needs to be followed up:

  • Take 10 mins at the end of a class to talk about the feedback.
  • Hold a focus group.
  • Reach out to student reps.

Remember to:

  • Allow time for feedback.
  • Summarise student feedback and identify any module improvement actions to take immediately or in the future.
  • Share feedback results and planned actions through class discussions, follow-up emails, or Canvas announcements.

 

Step 3 – Record and Reflect

To close the feedback loop, it is important to record and reflect on the process. 

  • At the end of each mid-module survey, briefly note what was done for steps 1 & 2 and include this in programme reflection documentation.
  • Any themes, issues and actions that appear as an outcome of a mid-module survey should be recorded in the Annual Monitoring and Review or Boards of Studies minutes.

Key Tips for Success

  • Be Transparent: Students appreciate knowing how their feedback will be used.
  • Stay Organised: Keeping a record of the feedback and your responses ensures you can track improvements over time.
  • Make It Routine: Integrate mid-module feedback into your regular teaching practice to consistently improve the student learning experience.
  • Acknowledge Receipt: Inform students that their feedback has been received and appreciated.
  • Communicate Findings: Share a summary of the feedback with students, highlighting the key points and any patterns observed. This transparency shows students that their input is valued and taken seriously.
  • Inform Students of Changes: Clearly communicate any changes or actions taken in response to the feedback.
  • Follow-Up: After implementing changes, seek further feedback from students to assess whether the adjustments have had a positive impact. This continuous loop of feedback and improvement fosters a responsive and adaptive learning environment.