University of Hawai'i eCAFE

eCAFE: Course and Faculty Evaluations

Instructor: Ania Wieczorek

Available Survey Results

TPSS 416, Fall 2011
TPSS 416, Spring 2010

Ania Wieczorek: TPSS 416, Fall 2011

Campus:	University of Hawaii at Manoa	Department:	Tropical Plant & Soil Science
Course:	TPSS 416 - Issues concerning biotechnolog	Crn (Section):	78764 (001)

1. Class Level (pick one)

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Freshman	Sophomore	Junior	Senior	Grad	Other
4.22	9	0.67	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (11%)	5 (56%)	3 (33%)	0 (0%)

2. Course

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Elective	Required
1.11	9	0.33	Freq(%)	8 (89%)	1 (11%)

3. The instructor demonstrated knowledge of course content.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.78	9	0.44	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	2 (22%)	7 (78%)

4. The instructor fulfilled the goals of the course.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.89	9	0.33	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (11%)	8 (89%)

5. The instructor communicated effectively.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.56	9	0.53	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	4 (44%)	5 (56%)

6. I learned to identify main points and central issues in this field.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.78	9	0.44	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	2 (22%)	7 (78%)

7. I deepened my interest in the subject matter of this course.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.78	9	0.44	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	2 (22%)	7 (78%)

8. I developed greater awareness of societal problems.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
5.0	9	0.0	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	9 (100%)

9. The course made me think hard and carefully.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.89	9	0.33	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (11%)	8 (89%)

10. Which aspects of the course were most valuable?

Guest lecturers.

The ability to set my own opinion aside in order to gain clarity on the topic as a whole.

Learning about the different issues surrounding biotech.

Having the wide variety of speakers was very helpful to get insight from many different perspectives/backgrounds. I also liked going on the field trips to get out of the classroom and see the farms first-hand. The fact that every class was different made the time go by fast and helped us to learn a lot of aspects of both sides of pro-biotech vs. anti-biotech.

field trips, some of the speakers with great knowledge on the subject,class discussion

class discussions after the guest presenters

Listening to the class speakers. They provided exceptional insight into their specific field, followed closely by the class discussions. These discussions brought out not only my thoughts as i had to vocalize and coax them out but also the thoughts of my peers who may have more to bring to the table from their own personal experiences.

introduction to all of the different speakers from Hawaii

The way it was taught was refreshing. Rote learning (basically remember-and-regurgitate learning) in my opinion is not very effective, nor is it enjoyable. Unfortunately most formal education follows that technique to the letter. This class did not. In my opinion this class was far more dynamic and effective and I thoroughly enjoyed the teaching style. The small class size was very nice and played a major part in allowing the teaching style to be effective.

11. Ten years from now I'll probably remember this course most by ...

The difference between appealing to science (facts) or emotion

The speakers we heard from and trips we went on.

The field trips and those days when we heard from people from opposite sides (pro and anti- biotech).

Speaker and Field trip to Taro Farm

content

All of the guest lecturers some were really good others not so. The speakers that Ania had brought in really made the class exciting and fun.

the discussions that it lead to in the bars later that night

The way the professor taught and the shift from my initial stance on the subject that I saw over the course.

12. What things did you get from this course that will benefit you personally?

It made me think about the politics and ethics surrounding biotechnology.

The ability to separate my own opinion in order to see the entire picture, the ability to understand both sides and realize that there is no black and white in this topic (or in life, really) and that it's impossible for these things to be yes or no. The education of the general public greatly affects how things are perceived, yet it's impossible to educate them fully in the 30 seconds of attention span you are given to capture their interest.

It made me more aware of the many issues relating biotechnology

More awareness about what is actually going on in the agricultural business, and what seed companies really do/stand for/ and how much they really own and control.

Im more aware of the local perspective on GE and why people have their doubts about the technology.

knowledge on both sides of the GMO fight. I went into the class feeling strongly against GMO and now it isnt so much GMO as it is the seed companies that I disagree with

I have learned so much more than I ever thought I would about GMO and its relation ship to culture, religion, ethical and moral issues and the struggles of people on both sides of the fence. I really did learn more about the issue of GMO than i have ever learned about any subject in just one semester here at UH.

Seeing all of the differing points of view on a very hot topic in the islands

A better understanding of the issues related to GE. More importantly I gained a much better understanding of the ways and philosophies behind the way the public thinks and acts when addressing GE and related issues.

13. The instructor stresses important points in lectures/discussions.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.78	9	0.44	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	2 (22%)	7 (78%)

14. The instructor is enthusiastic about the course material.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.89	9	0.33	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (11%)	8 (89%)

15. The instructor appears to have a thorough knowledge of the subject.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.67	9	0.5	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	3 (33%)	6 (67%)

16. The instructor was able to explain concepts clearly and effectively.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.67	9	0.71	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (11%)	1 (11%)	7 (78%)

17. The instructor was effective in meeting the objectives of the course.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.78	9	0.44	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	2 (22%)	7 (78%)

18. The instructor was enthusiastic about the course material.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.78	9	0.44	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	2 (22%)	7 (78%)

19. The instructor treated students fairly.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.5	8	0.76	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (13%)	2 (25%)	5 (63%)

20. Assistance from the instructor outside the class was readily available.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.22	9	0.83	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	2 (22%)	3 (33%)	4 (44%)

21. The amount of work required is appropriate for the credit received.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.67	9	0.71	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (11%)	1 (11%)	7 (78%)

22. Assignments are graded fairly.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.56	9	0.73	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (11%)	2 (22%)	6 (67%)

23. The course materials (texts, handouts) make a valuable contribution to the course.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.22	9	0.97	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	3 (33%)	1 (11%)	5 (56%)

24. The course was well-organized in terms of continuity and presentation.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.56	9	0.73	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (11%)	2 (22%)	6 (67%)

25. The field trips were useful learning experiences.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.78	9	0.44	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	2 (22%)	7 (78%)

26. The guest lecturers were interesting and stimulating.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
5.0	9	0.0	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	9 (100%)

27. Examinations cover the important aspects of the course.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
3.5	8	0.93	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	6 (75%)	0 (0%)	2 (25%)

28. Other comments:

I took this course because I wanted to learn more about biotech, I left this course with much more that I had anticipated. I attribute my experience to Ania's unconventional way of teaching. By requiring us to work as a group and find our own sources on given topics, it allowed me to delve more into my personal interests within the discipline. While she probably has opinions of her own, she never showed them and she was interested in what we had to say on the subject, but encouraged us to think about what the opposition might be. Overall, the course was pleasantly surprising, very much accommodating, and one of the most useful classes I have taken during my time at UHM. The tools and methods I gained through this course will definitely apply to the rest of my life and for many years to come. Thank you, Ania!

It was a great course, and Ania was a great teacher. If I had to make one suggestion, it would be to learn more about the details of the science of biotech.

I think that maybe the presentation should have been due a little earlier in the semester. maybe before thanksgiving break? just because its such a busy time, I personally wish I had put even more into it if I had more flexibility around my other classes. Maybe have it as a midterm presentation? Then finish off the class with another field trip? Just a suggestion...

I really enjoyed this class, it was nothing of what I was expecting it to be like. I will definitely be telling fellow students to take this class

This was a great class. I really enjoyed the discourse the class had after the speakers. I only wish that there was more time for that part. It really gives us a chance to have some good intellectual conversations.

Ania Wieczorek: TPSS 416, Spring 2010 Back to top

Campus:	University of Hawaii at Manoa	Department:	Tropical Plant & Soil Science
Course:	TPSS 416 - Issues concerning biotechnolog	Crn (Section):	87381 (001)

1. Class Level (pick one)

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Freshman	Sophomore	Junior	Senior	Grad	Other
3.55	11	1.13	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	2 (18%)	4 (36%)	2 (18%)	3 (27%)	0 (0%)

2. Course

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Elective	Required
1.36	11	0.5	Freq(%)	7 (64%)	4 (36%)

3. The instructor demonstrated knowledge of course content.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.9	10	0.32	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (10%)	9 (90%)

4. The instructor fulfilled the goals of the course.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.91	11	0.3	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (9%)	10 (91%)

5. The instructor communicated effectively.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.73	11	0.47	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	3 (27%)	8 (73%)

6. I learned to identify main points and central issues in this field.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.82	11	0.4	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	2 (18%)	9 (82%)

7. I deepened my interest in the subject matter of this course.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.82	11	0.4	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	2 (18%)	9 (82%)

8. I developed greater awareness of societal problems.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.91	11	0.3	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (9%)	10 (91%)

9. The course made me think hard and carefully.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.91	11	0.3	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (9%)	10 (91%)

10. Which aspects of the course were most valuable?

Dr. Wieczorek encouraged the class to research and look beyond the surface of the issues covered in class. The guest speakers were excellent and experts in their field. Every person who spoke to our class had a genuine interest and brought contagious enthusiasm.

Taking trips outside of the classroom to get the full experience.

Hands down the debates and awesome guest lectures. The set up of the class was like no other I have had and really an awesome idea that worked for me. The time after on reviewing the lectures was great as well.

Having such knowledgeable and well traveled professor was amazing, the amount of information covered was astounding, yet all of it somehow soaked in. The guest lecturers were from all over the place, geographically as well as mentally. A great argument on the fence. Brings up the awareness of cultural and ethical issues not previously heard of.

Perspective was the most valuable aspect of this course in my opinion. Having guest speakers from both sides of the fence allows one to make their own decisions with adequate information.

Guest lecturers where great

Guest speakers were really diverse

The wider variety of speakers with different real life examples and ideas on genetically engineered food, a very important aspect of our society and this world.

Thinking critically about the viewpoints of both pro- and anti- biotechnological concerns to argue a point.

I thought the field trips to the industry were very effective in demonstrating the reality of GMO's in today's businesses.

Class discussions

11. Ten years from now I'll probably remember this course most by ...

I have been so disappointed with school in general that I was ready to quit before I took this class. Guest speakers, field trip, everything about this class was amazing. Having a teacher that was so knowledgeable and encouraging towards the subject made me think that school may actually be worthwhile, 16 years in school and 1 worthwhile teacher, the rest should be ashamed. If I had not registered for this class there is no doubt in my mind I would have dropped out.

social aspects and debates of certain areas in agriculture

The set up and idea the teacher had to bring in lectures everyday for class. Awesome awesome idea. It was a privilege to be a part of the class and see all the speakers and the different points of views from highly recognized or qualified speakers. I always share with friends and family how cool the set up of the class is and what I will be doing.

The amount of material covered and the actual amount of knowledge that I took away from the class. Not only about Biotech and agriculture but about the logistics of an entire matrix of different entities in one, the legal system, factory production, cultural aspects (that can have a loud voice) and so much more.

The controversy surrounding

giving me a basis for issues that will arise in the future

The wide variety of speakers and interesting topics discussed throughout the semester. It will be interesting to see how things have changed and look back at what was happening in 2010 in agricultural science, bio-engineering, ect.

The opposing views that have been brought up in this class, and seeing how most of those views have been disproved.

The knowledge of transgenic material and the ability to speak intelligently and unbiased about the subject.

The facts that i learned

12. What things did you get from this course that will benefit you personally?

This class was the most well run and interesting class I have ever taken. This semester was my first semester at UH manoa and for the most part I was greatly disappointed and felt like the teachers just pile on busy work that hinders the educational process, this class was the exception. If every teacher taught with the enthusiasm that Dr. Wieczorek brought to the class the education system would be one of actual learning and not just hoops to jump through. Everytime I left this class i looked forward to getting home so I could tell my friends what I learned, I have not felt this in any other class this semester.

I am more knowledgeable and able to discuss major points to other people who are not familiar with situations.

Understanding GE and other farming practices. I had no prior ideas or experience. Thank you Ania for doing everything you did to make this class the experience it was. Its awesome to have a teacher so devoted to makeing each class session awesome. Being a long class on fridays you hit a home run for me and helped to open my eyes.

The ability to have a two sided conversation and an open mind. Realizing that everything is working together and not apart, and that there is still so much to learn and expand.

A inspired awarness of the truth

I can begin to understand that there are no standard units for ethics, people will always have their reasons for believing something, and that means that I cannot tell them that they are wrong

A more pronounced knowledge of bio-engineering, the ethical issues concerning GMO's, and the agricultural history of hawaii.

Thinking critically of the opposing sides as compared to mine, in order to make informed decisions of how I approach biotechnology in my field of work.

Unbiased information that allowed me to synthesize the material on my own.

I learned about the in depth issues related to genetic engineering, and it's future potential

13. The instructor stresses important points in lectures/discussions.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.73	11	0.47	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	3 (27%)	8 (73%)

14. The instructor is enthusiastic about the course material.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.82	11	0.4	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	2 (18%)	9 (82%)

15. The instructor appears to have a thorough knowledge of the subject.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.82	11	0.4	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	2 (18%)	9 (82%)

16. The instructor was able to explain concepts clearly and effectively.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.64	11	0.67	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (9%)	2 (18%)	8 (73%)

17. The instructor was effective in meeting the objectives of the course.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.91	11	0.3	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (9%)	10 (91%)

18. The instructor stated the course objectives clearly.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.9	10	0.32	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (10%)	9 (90%)

19. The instructor was enthusiastic about the course material.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.91	11	0.3	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (9%)	10 (91%)

20. The instructor treated students fairly.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.91	11	0.3	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (9%)	10 (91%)

21. Assistance from the instructor outside the class was readily available.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.6	10	0.7	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (10%)	2 (20%)	7 (70%)

22. The amount of work required is appropriate for the credit received.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.82	11	0.4	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	2 (18%)	9 (82%)

23. Assignments are graded fairly.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.64	11	0.67	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (9%)	2 (18%)	8 (73%)

24. The course materials (texts, handouts) make a valuable contribution to the course.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.7	10	0.48	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	3 (30%)	7 (70%)

25. The course was well-organized in terms of continuity and presentation.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.73	11	0.47	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	3 (27%)	8 (73%)

26. The field trips were useful learning experiences.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.73	11	0.65	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (9%)	1 (9%)	9 (82%)

27. The guest lecturers were interesting and stimulating.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
5.0	11	0.0	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	11 (100%)

28. Examinations cover the important aspects of the course.

Mean	N-Size	Std Dev		Strongly Disagree	Disagree	Neutral	Agree	Strongly Agree
4.5	10	0.71	Freq(%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	1 (10%)	3 (30%)	6 (60%)

29. Other comments:

The difference between this class and other classes I took this semester is I will remember what I learned because of the enthusiasm brought by Dr. Wieczorec and the speakers, where as other classes its in one ear out the other. The Perfect class, change nothing.

Really enjoyed this course.

Mahalo for such a great semester! time to go out and spread the word about the vast body of the unknown.. Great class, thanks again. The amount of lecturers was a great approach to discussing such a broadly faced and eccentric bunch of concepts.

It was a bit frustrating when I was really excited to hear a really good anti-biotech argument from a speaker and most of the presentation was complaining about Monsanto and whatnot. I was a bit disappointed that I was not able to listen to somebody speak out against biotech and give scientific facts to supplement. They must be out there somewhere.. why are they so difficult to come by?

I enjoyed the lecturers and experiments. I thought our class discussions were always really interesting. I would have liked to learn more about biotechnology and its potential in developing countries. Thanks and have a great summer!

Students from biotechnology majors and those interested in biotechnology should take this course so that they know what issues they will be confronted with when they actually get into their fields in the real world.

Great class, would definitely recommend to other students in the future.