Minimizing Error When Developing Questionnaires

Questionnaires are used by faculty developers, administrators, faculty, and students in higher education to assess need, conduct research, and evaluate teaching or learning. While used often, questionnaires may be the most misused method of collecting information, due to the potential for sampling error and nonsampling error, which includes questionnaire design, sample selection, nonresponse, wording, social desirability, recall, format, order, and context effects. This article offers methods and strategies to minimize these errors during questionnaire development, discusses the importance of pilot-testing questionnaires, and underscores the importance of an ethical approach to the process. Examples relevant to higher education illustrate key points

Creating an Inclusive Learning Environment

Students bring differences relating to life experiences, attitudes, age, religion, discipline, and learning styles into the classroom. This essay offers strategies to promote diversity awareness and an inclusive learning environment