Group Instructional Feedback Technique (GIFT)

GIFT is a confidential process that allows instructors to gather feedback from their students.

The process:

  • Facilitated by trained colleagues who act as peer consultants.
  • Provides student feedback, not instructional critique.
  • Kept confidential between the instructor and the peer consultant.

Benefits:

  • Strengthens communication between instructors and their students.
  • Fosters supportive, collegial relationships between the instructor and facilitator.
  • Clears up misconceptions students may have about the course.
  • Requires students to share responsibility for their own success in the course.
  • Allows course changes to be made early enough in the term to make a difference.

    Request a GIFT

    GIFT Request Form

    Please allow up to two weeks for someone from the Center for Academic Innovation to get back to you about your request.  In some instances, the time needed may be less.

    You can complete this form more than once if you would like more than one course to receive a GIFT.

    How the process works

    1. Submit the GIFT request form and the Center for Academic Innovation will contact you to arrange your GIFT. GIFTs are available during the Fall, Winter and Spring terms.
    2. As facilitator will be assigned and will work with you to schedule the GIFT.  They can also answer any questions you may have about the process.
    3. When your facilitator visits your class, they will explain the process and benefits of the GIFT. You will leave the class and the facilitator will then divide your students into small groups and ask them to discuss the course’s strengths and areas in need of improvement. Students are also asked to make suggestions for changes to the course. The whole process takes approximately 30 minutes.
    4. Your facilitator will then synthesize and summarize the results of the classroom discussion and will meet with you to discuss the results.
    5. Finally, you and your students can discuss the results and possible changes to the course.
    InstructionCourse ReviewsGIFT