If you’re running an online course, your top priority is helping students succeed. But how do you know what’s really working — and what isn’t? One of the most effective (and often underused) tools is the feedback survey.

When used correctly, surveys can give you real, actionable insights directly from your learners. Whether you’re teaching a few students or managing a large cohort, collecting feedback can help you:

Catch issues early before students drop off
Identify confusing or overwhelming content
Understand whether your course is helping students meet their goals
Make targeted improvements that enhance learning
Turn satisfied learners into promoters through testimonials
And the best part? You don’t need expensive tools or a complex setup. Platforms like Google Forms, Typeform, and SurveyMonkey make it easy to ask the right questions at the right time.

From quick in-lesson polls to end-of-course evaluations, feedback can shine a light on exactly where your course needs improvement. But it only works if you take action whether that means fixing broken videos, simplifying complex lessons, or adding more real-world examples.

To sum up:

Ask for feedback at multiple stages not just at the end
Keep surveys short, focused, and easy to complete
Use accessible tools to create and share your surveys
Review responses for common patterns or problem areas
Act on the feedback to improve your course experience
Use positive responses as testimonials to build credibility
Test changes with small groups before rolling them out fully
Keep the conversation open. The more you listen and improve, the more valuable your course becomes for your students and your business.

Read the full article to create feedback surveys that actually lead to better learning outcomes.