Validation and use of the CEQ in The Netherlands

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to validate the course experience questionnaire (CEQ) for possible use in Dutch universities. Design/methodology/approach – A 23 item CEQ was administered and the data analysed using confirmatory factor analysis. Findings – Confirmatory factor analysis provided a good fit for the CEQ's five-factor structure, and the scales showed good reliabilities. Validation with external criterion and discriminant validation between faculties with different teaching environments demonstrated the CEQ's potential for use in Dutch universities. Research limitations/implications – A limitation of this study was the convenience sample and the number of students included (n=956). Originality/value – The results of this validation exercise suggest that the use of the CEQ in Dutch universities could be useful. This could be of benefit for these universities in being able to initiate discussions with other universities, both in The Netherlands and beyond, about possible enhancement initiatives.