P212121

At our university we are required to give a literature presentation. The presentation is 1 hour including time for questions. The goal of this exercise is to help students develop various skills that are valuable in a scientific career such as presenting, evaluating literature and answering questions. Good stuff.

I did my presentation and it really well except to one professor. According to my evaluation, I had confidently fabricated an answer and misled an entire audience. Fair enough, I make mistakes, but in this case I was right and had the literature to back it up. My scores were fine despite this one professor, but I wanted to discuss the issue. I was curious if the book and papers that supported my view were wrong. I wanted to learn.

I went to the head of session and asked who gave this evaluation. I was then told that the feedback was anonymous and they were not allowed to tell me. I then asked if he could ask the professor to contact me so that I could visit their office and discuss the evaluation. The head of session said that would be fine and sent out an email, but the professor never got in touch.

From this experience, I have also decided to no longer give anonymous feedback. I don’t want to hide. If the person who is getting my feedback disagrees, wants clarification, suggestions then great, let’s talk.

Scientific dialogue is invaluable and is reflected in our numerous publications and conferences.

I asked a faculty member of nearly 30 years why the policy existed and was told ‘this is the way we have always done it.’

Does your department give anonymous feedback? Do you find it helpful? Do you know why they keep that policy?