The increased pressures on Universities to have demonstrable accountability measures in the form of quality assurance systems, coupled with the increasing use of flexible delivery technologies, produce a new environment in which to carry out the evaluation of teaching. This paper discusses one component of the evaluation of teaching - the evaluation of teaching by students, via online methods, at the University of South Australia. The advantages of this approach are described.

The results of the use of online evaluations in a large first year Art subject are presented and are compared with 'pencil and paper' instruments previously used. Examples of issues that needed to be addressed are discussed. The benefits and risks to students, staff and the institution as a whole are considered. Finally, future developments planned are outlined.