Student Evaluation of Teaching as a Disciplinary Mechanism: A Foucauldian Analysis

• In Event: 60.084 - Roundtable Session 20
  In Roundtable Session: 60.084-2 - Critical Pedagogy in Postsecondary Classrooms

Abstract

This article provides a philosophical analysis of student evaluation of teaching (SET). Drawing on the work of Michel Foucault, we consider SET as a disciplinary mechanism with inherent dangers including the devaluation of professionalism in higher education. SET may best be understood as a discursive practice that attempts to facilitate self-discipline in both students and teachers. We map a model of the power relationships within the SET mechanism, with the aim of encouraging students, faculty members, and administrators to take co-responsibility as active/ethical professionals for the quality of teaching and learning, rather than overemphasizing external accountability.

Authors

• Ya-Wen Hou, University of Pittsburgh

• Che-Wei Lee, University of Pittsburgh

• Michael G. Gunzenhauser, University of Pittsburgh