Small Group Instructional Diagnosis (SGID)

One method for developing exceptional learning environments is to assess your courses by frequently acquiring student feedback. We discuss a variety of Classroom Assessment Techniques here, but one of the most helpful of these is the Small Group Instructional Diagnosis (SGID).

Fundamentally, a SGID is a method for collecting student feedback that traditionally occurs around midterm but can happen at any time an instructor would like. The format for a SGID is quite simple: interested faculty and GTAs will meet with a consultant from the Stearns Center to discuss the course or courses in question, to look over the Stearns Center SGID Form and generate any additional questions the instructor may wish to ask, and to settle on a time for the SGID.

On the established date, the consultant will come to the class, and the instructor will step out for 20-25 minutes. During this time, the consultant will ask students to get into small groups and then proceed to ask them the questions on the SGID form. The groups will then have time to discuss the questions. Following this period of discussion, the class will reconvene and the consultant will write down the students’ responses.

After the SGID is completed, the consultant and the instructor will meet once more to talk about the results of the SGID and to reflect on the ways in which this feedback could help in planning strategies for any changes that both you and the consultant together believe will lead to improvement.

Confidentiality Statement and Policy: The Stearns Center respects the confidentiality of individuals who participate in the consultation process. Center staff will not share your private information except to confirm, if you desire it, that you have taken advantage of our service.