National Student Survey (NSS)
Introduction
Since its launch in 2005, the National Student Survey has resulted in much debate about the relative merits of the questions asked and the reliability of the results. These debates will continue for some time as it is expected the National Student Survey will be sent to students each year for the foreseeable future. In this section of the website we look at the results of the NSS and touch on some of the issues that it raises.
What is 'National Student Survey (NSS)'?
The National Student Survey (NSS) gathers feedback on the quality of students' courses. The NSS is conducted in all HEIs in England (including the independent University of Buckingham), Wales and Northern Ireland covering nearly all final year undergraduates studying for a higher education qualification. Some Scottish HEIs participate in the NSS each year however Scotland does have its own Quality Enhancement Framework.
The survey asks final year undergraduate students to provide feedback on their course. There are 22 questions, relating to:
- Teaching on my course
- Assessment and Feedback
- Academic Support
- Organisation and Management
- Learning Resources
- Personal Development
- Overall Satisfaction
The number of returned surveys increases each year. In 2010 there were more than 250,000 responses from students (63% of the eligible students) from 152 higher education institutions and 113 further education colleges.
Following publication of the 2010 survey results there has now been 6 surveys completed.
All surveys have been operated by IPSOS Mori. Before the 2011 survey there will be a tendering exercise to determine who will conduct future surveys.
From the Higher Education Academy
The Higher Education Academy has a dedicated team and a specific section on their website. The aim of the NSS team is to support higher education institutions to interpret and use this data effectively. The team also looks at how student feedback can be used to inform policy and practice.
Exploring the National Student Survey:Assessment and feedback issues. Williams.J, Kane.D (2008)
The Higher Education Academy has also produced a number of NSS Institutional Case Studies (2007)
The National Student Survey (NSS) 2005 and 2006 was analysed using a statistical technique called multilevel modelling in a publication called Interpreting National Student Survey (NSS) data using multi-level modelling A non-technical guide (2008). This guide explains in a non-technical language what these analyses mean and how institutions can use the report and annexes of the technical report to inform evidence-based quality enhancement activities.
Alternate definitions
http://www.thestudentsurvey.com/ is the website where students can find out more.
The National Union of Students website also has information regarding the NSS.
General & Wider Reading & Resources
The NSS results by course are now also displayed on the UCAS website for every subject at every university. The comparision of results available from the UCAS website can help applicants compare NSS scores across institutions and ultimately use these to make their course selection decisions.
The Destination of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE) survey collects information on what leavers from higher education programmes are doing six months after qualifying from their HE course (employed, engaged in further study and so on).
The DLHE survey has been used in higher education institutions (HEIs) in its current form since 2002-03. It was known previously as the First Destination Survey. Individual HEIs administer their own surveys, using materials provided by the Higher Education Statistics Agency.
Is there any criticism of the NSS?
Yes, there are critics of the NSS. Some question its fairness whilst others have been concerned about influencing of students during the 2010 survey period.
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Further reading
