Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the University doing this survey?

We would like to know as much as possible about the total experience of being a student at this University. This includes not only the academic component of your experience, but also other supporting services (eg, food services, health services, library services, or a language skills program). This year’s survey is specifically for first year undergraduate students. More detail on survey content.

How will I know my answers will be kept confidential?

The survey is being conducted as part of the University’s Evaluation Cycle by the University Planning Office, and is at arm’s length from services, faculties and teaching. All data will be reported at an aggregate level so your identity will not be revealed. In comments, care is taken to ensure that students won’t be identified in reporting.

Who has access to my contact details? How will data be stored?

Data will be collected by the University Planning Office (UPO) and is kept securely with access limited only to UPO staff. Your contact details will not be passed to any third parties.

What will happen to the information from the survey?

A series of reports will be written from the collected data. The outcomes will be considered by the Melbourne Experience Advisory Group which is chaired by the Provost, Professor Peter McPhee, and by Academic Board and teaching and learning committees. All of these committees have undergraduate and postgraduate student representatives. The reports and comments are also read by the various teams of people providing student services in faculties and by Student Centre staff. These committees and relevant student services will develop plans for further action.

How can I find out what students have said before?

A summary report of the first year student experience is available from the MES website, http://www.upo.unimelb.edu.au/Public/Qual_Eval/EC_MES.html. If you want to access a copy of the detailed report please contact the Manager of the Evaluation Cycle, Suzanne Daroesman.

How will the results be used?

The results will be used to evaluate what we do on several levels. Services and divisions will consider both the quantitative and qualitative data to look at how well they may have met students’ expectations, and to consider what action may need to be taken to address student concerns. Action will be taken wherever possible to make improvements. Results will also help to assess performance over time.

Can I opt out of the prize draw?

Yes. You can do this by sending an email. More information about the prize draw.

Can I opt out of the survey?

Yes, it is voluntary. But we value your opinion, and would strongly encourage your participation.

Why do I need to use my username and password to log in to the survey?

We are asking all respondents to use their University username and password as a security measure to ensure that only first year Melbourne students can take part, and be eligible for the prize draws.

When I try to login I get an error message saying my login is invalid.

The current survey is open only to first year undergraduate students. Higher degree research students will have the opportunity to provide feedback in the Quality of research supervision and academic support survey to be conducted later this year. Other students will have an opportunity in 2009. More help on login problems.

I have more questions about the survey. Who can I contact?

You can contact Evaluation Cycle staff, Anna To, or the Manager Evaluation Cycle in the University Planning Office, Suzanne Daroesman.

I’ve been critical in my comments about the University. Will any action be taken against me?

The survey was commissioned to evaluate students’ experiences, and action will be taken where possible to effect improvements and to make sure problems don’t arise again. We strongly encourage you to comment on your experience as your comments help us identify problems and solutions. You will not be identified in any reporting.

I have a specific complaint about a University service or faculty. How can I be assured that my complaint won’t be ignored?

This survey is not the best way to make a specific complaint. If you have a specific complaint you should contact the service directly. If you don’t know where to go you can contact Evaluation Cycle staff Anna To or Suzanne Daroesman the Manager Evaluation Cycle who can help identify the right person.

What is the Evaluation Cycle?

The Evaluation Cycle is the University's feedback mechanism to find out what students and graduates have to say about its core programs and services. A major component seeks student feedback on the Quality of Teaching in every taught subject. Students undertaking a research higher degree (a doctorate or a Master’s degree by research) provide feedback through a separate research experience survey, conducted every two years. The University also participates in a national study, the Australian Graduate Survey, which asks students and graduates about their work or study destinations, and their perceptions of their course, after completion of the degree. More information, and survey reports, are available from the Evaluation Cycle homepage.