How can I get honest answers from students at Open Campus rather than only positive comments?
Instead of asking only questions such as “Do you enjoy it?”, ask specific questions about class difficulty, assignment volume, busy periods, gaps between expectations and reality, and support when problems arise. Try to hear both positive and difficult aspects, use a small-group or individual student consultation if available, and compare answers from several students in the same faculty or year. Check differences by faculty or academic year against official information as well.
Key points
- Ask whether individual consultations or an anonymous way to raise sensitive questions are available.
- Use specific prompts such as “What is the hardest part?” or “What differed from your expectations before enrolling?”
- Speak with several students, including students from the relevant faculty and year, and consider differences in their views.
- Cross-check impressions from students with official information about the curriculum and support systems.
Things to check
- The students attending and the time available may be limited, so comments at an Open Campus may not represent the whole student body.
- How candid someone can be, and what they have experienced, varies by faculty, academic year, and individual.