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Feedback is gathered from participants in NZSSN courses and activities, in order to show where improvements could be made. In February 2005, NZSSN's first short course was run at The University of Auckland's Tamaki Campus – Using Mixed Methods in Research and Program Evaluation. Full course evaluations were completed by the participants. In summary, they were very positive, with suggestions for improvement mainly relating to the facilities and/or teaching rooms used for the courses. A description of the course and some of the data from the course evaluations are presented below.
USING MIXED METHODS IN RESEARCH AND PROGRAM EVALUATION 14 – 18 February 2005 An introductory-level course intended for current and emerging researchers who want to know more about using both qualitative and quantitative methods in their research activities. COURSE EVALUATIONS – OVERVIEW Course participants were asked why they chose to do the course – specifically with regard to what their motivation was in improving their research skills. The results from this are shown graphically below.  Along with this, participants were asked what area they were employed in.  Critique of course presenters The participants were asked to judge the performance of the course presenters on four aspects using a 10-point scale with 1 = poor and 10 = very good. The aspects, and mean scores for each, were: • course organisation (8.9) • knowledge of the subject matter (9.6) • presentation of course material (9.0), and • responsiveness to participants’ needs/questions (9.3). Critique of course amenities The participants were asked to judge the quality of the amenities and support that were provided during the course, again using a 10-point scale. The variables examined, and mean scores for them, were: • morning and afternoon teas (8.9) • teaching rooms (7.6) • computing resources (9.5), and • course schedules and timetable (8.8). Course evaluations provide helpful feedback that is used in attempting to improve subequent activities. Overall, from the 2005 feedback, the facilities and teaching rooms were the only area noted where improvements could be made in the short term.
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