Creating Questions
Three optional question modules can be used to expand a survey: Instructor Questions, Discpline Questions, and Context Questions. These modules appear alongside the Common Core question set that appears on every Course Experience Survey. The Common Core question set was developed at SFU through extensive research with students about how they define a high-quality learning experience (e.g., challenge, instructor engagement, grading clarity). Further information on the research and methodology behind these questions is available on the LEAP website.
Instructor Questions
After CES scheduling is complete, instructors receive an email with their survey schedule and an email invitation to create their own questions (up to 4) or select them from a question bank. Instructor questions are intended to support personal teaching development or course design decisions. Feedback from these questions is shared only with the instructor. Instructors may choose to include results from these questions in a teaching portfolio, award application, or review process.
When creating questions, instructors should review the Common Core, Discipline, and Context modules to avoid repeating questions. This can be done efficiently using the "Preview" function in the CES Portal while adding questions to a survey.
Discipline Questions
The Discipline Module includes questions (up to 4) about teaching approaches or course delivery methods that are common within a discipline but may not apply to all SFU courses. These questions are selected or created by the academic unit or program lead (e.g., Chair or Director), typically in consultation with faculty members. The CES team often works with departments during the development process to help refine questions and ensure they align with the overall CES framework. Each question must include a short rationale explaining why it is included and how the results will support teaching and course improvement within the discipline.
To avoid repetitive questions appearing on CES, Discipline questions must be submitted to the CES team for review and approval before instructors begin adding their own questions.
CONTACT INFORMATION
cesurvey@sfu.ca
Context Questions
Context questions are commissioned and approved by the Associate Vice-President, Learning and Teaching (AVPLT) and reflect university-level priorities, strategic initiatives, or specific teaching and learning contexts. Context modules may appear for specific terms or initiatives and may be revised or retired as priorities evolve.
When a context module is introduced, the questions are published on the CES website and included in the survey preview within the CES Portal. This allows instructors to review the full set of survey questions before adding their own.