What is
a Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP)?
A QEP is a course of action for institutional improvement that addresses
one or more issues contributing to quality enhancement of student
learning.
COCSACS notes in their "Handbook for Reaffirmation of
Accreditation" that "student learning is at the heart of the mission of
all institutions of higher learning...Developing a QEP as a part of the
reaffirmation process is an opportunity and an impetus for the
institution to enhance overall institutional quality and effectiveness
by focusing on an issue or issues the institution considers important to
improving student learning" (2004: 21).
The QEP must emerge from the institution's current
planning and evaluation processes and must be compatible with College's
strategic plan. The QEP should not be seen as an "add-on" but rather it
should become an integral part of the institution and its activities.
For more information on QEPs, see the
COCSACS Handbook for
Reaffirmation of Accreditation.
What is meant by "student learning" in the QEP?
According to COCSACS, "student learning is defined broadly in the
context of the QEP and may address a wide range of topics or issues.
Student learning may include changes in students' knowledge, skills,
behaviors, and/or values that may be attributable to the collegiate
experience.
Examples of topics or issues include, but are not limited to, enhancing
the academic climate for student learning, strengthening the general
studies curriculum, developing creative approaches to experiential
learning, enhancing critical thinking skills, introducing innovative
teaching and learning strategies, increasing student engagement in
learning, and exploring imaginative ways to use technology in the
curriculum.
In all cases, the goals and evaluation strategies must be clearly linked
to improving the quality of student learning." (COCSACS
Handbook for Reaffirmation of Accreditation, 2004: 22). This means
that formulating intended student learning outcomes that demonstrate the
impact of the QEP on students will be an integral part of the plan.
What are the elements of a QEP?
The plan must be "forward looking" and "launches a process that can move
the institution into the future characterized by creative, engaging, and
meaningful learning experiences for students" (COCSACS
Handbook for Reaffirmation of Accreditation, 2004: 21).
Once a plan is finished, it contains a brief descriptive title, a
rationale for the plan, and evidence of support among campus
constituencies.
The QEP also includes a literature review supporting the
plan, statements of goals and intended student learning outcomes,
descriptions of the means of assessment and evaluation, a management
plan with a detailed timeline, and a fiscal plan indicating adequate
resources and institutional support for the activities outlined.
What is the scope of the QEP?
When considering the focus of the QEP, attention may be given to current
institutional weaknesses. However, a QEP can also focus on a strength
that the institution would like to enhance.
In addition, the QEP can focus on a limited population
of students, although it should be broad-based enough so that all
academic units can participate in the plan.
Where can I go for further information?
For further information regarding Angelina College’s Quality Enhancement
Plan, please contact Dr. Monica Peters-Morris at (936) 633-5250 or
mpeters@angelina.edu and/or
Dr. Laura Hebert at (936) 633-5319 or
lhebert@angelina.edu.
01/17/2007 03:38:44 PM
angelina.edu