LTDG Scheme project evaluation
The evaluation of teaching projects was an integral part of the Learning and Teaching Development Grant scheme which operated at the University of Sheffield up to 2009. The aim of the scheme was not only to improve learning and teaching in the immediate local context, but also to promote a deeper understanding of learning and teaching at the University of Sheffield more widely, in order to further the aims of the Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategy. The aim of project evaluation was therefore to gain an insight into the impact of the project, in particular how it has influenced the learning and teaching experience of students and staff involved. This knowledge was exchanged with other departments to improve learning and teaching across the University. The project evaluation was not an audit activity.
The resources developed here are intended to help you if you are undertaking an independent evaluation.
In summary, the key question for project evaluation is:
How does the new initiative introduced by staff members affect teaching practice, and what effect do such changes to teaching have on the student learning experience?
It is important to note that this question focuses not only on the outcomes of the project (has it met the initial goals), but also on understanding how the project activities have contributed towards outcomes, and what has been learnt by undertaking the project.
Project evaluations will normally include feedback from students on their learning. Appropriate methods for producing feedback include (but are not limited to) questionnaires, interviews, focus groups, reviews of assessed work, MOLE data or learning diaries. Feedback from other actors in the project eg tutors, module team, lab technicians, technical support, is also often valuable.
Examples of Case Studies written by previous LTDG projects are available at: