This summer we sent out a feedback survey to gauge the experience users had using Tandem to complete the Enrolment and Degrees Awarded Survey. The survey went to the more than 60 people at 42 HEIs who used Tandem this year, with 33 responding. In general, responses to the system were positive. We also gained valuable feedback on what we can do to improve things going forward.
Our results found that for 60 per cent of respondents, this was their first time completing the survey. For those who had entered data previously, 69 per cent agreed or strongly agreed that, compared to the previous data entry tool, Tandem required less time to enter data. Among these respondents, several users commented that Tandem was better organized and flowed more logically, while others described it as “extremely easy to use.”
Several clear themes emerged in terms of where to improve both the system and the survey itself. Respondents requested more automation for inputting certain kinds of data, and greater clarity on what data needs to be entered in specific fields. While the new system itself was well received, with 79 per cent indicating a positive overall experience, we also received a significant number of questions focused on the content and framing of the questions asked in the survey. This will be a focus when we speak to the National Council of Deans of Engineering and Applied Science (NCDEAS) at their November meeting. As the owners of the survey, the group is tasked with making decisions around future refinements to the survey’s content.
We would like to send our sincerest thanks to everyone that sent us their thoughts through to the feedback survey. It is through such mechanisms that we are able to continue improving the Enrolment and Degrees Awarded Survey and the tools we use to deliver it.
