Student Expectations: Survey for Basic Studies Dept.

We are examining our courses in the Basic Studies Department and making adjustments so that students can better transition into program courses. What skills are most important for success in your classes?
Name (optional): 


  1. What class or classes do you teach? If you are associated with a certain program, please explain.


  1. Have you ever had students from other countries whose native language is not English in your classes?
    Yes
    No


  1. If so, usually about what percent of your students are ESL students? (Use this quarter as an example, or estimate from the past.)


  1. What kind(s) of evalulations (tests, quizzes) do you MOST OFTEN use?
    (Mark all that apply. 1=Most, 5=Least)
        1 2 3 4 5   N/A
    Fill-in the blanks    
    Multiple choice    
    Short essay    
    True-False    
    competency skills (not written tests)    


  1. My tests are usually....
    (Mark all that apply. 1=Most, 5=Least)
        1 2 3 4 5   N/A
    open book tests    
    un-timed or take-home tests    
    timed and proctored    
    given on a computer    
    competency skills (not written tests)    


  1. The most important skills for success in my course, in order of importance are:
    (Mark all that apply. 1=Most, 5=Least)
        1 2 3 4 5
    high-level writing skills with almost no grammar errors.  
    the students ability to read large amounts with a good understanding.  
    the ability to communicate well in spoken English and work with others.  
    a good understanding of basic math.  
    the student's ability to learn the competency skills for my field.  


  1. In my courses, I have found that students who are studying with English as their second language most often:
    (Mark all that apply. 1=Most, 5=Least)
        1 2 3 4
    need to work on their pronunciation more in order to succeed.  
    need better writing skills in order to be successful.  
    need to improve their reading skills in order do well.  
    need to improve their listening skills so that they can understand me.  


  1. How important are computer skills in your courses? Explain briefly how they are used for your subject. (For example for tests, for research, email communications, typing papers, etc. )


  1. When thinking about my native speakers versus my non-native speakers, I have found that the biggest issue that causes the non-native speakers problems is:


  1. Do you have any other suggestions for what you feel could help your non-native speakers before they reach your program?