SoE APC Self Study Report 2021.pdf

The School of Education Academic Planning Council (APC) conducted a self-study in 2021, led by a review committee. The study aimed to assess the APC's effectiveness and compliance with Faculty Policies and Procedures. The committee surveyed individuals who presented program proposals to the APC, current and past APC members, and conducted interviews with program reviewers and Dean's office staff. The results showed a lack of clarity regarding the roles of APC versus Programs Committee, with respondents feeling positively about the feedback received from APC but unsure about the differences in presentations to both bodies. The study identified five key recommendations:

1. Improve communication to faculty and staff about the APC's role in SoE governance.
2. Better define and articulate the APC's role in the program review process.
3. Align the APC's charge and operations.
4. Formalize the election process of APC representatives.
5. Ensure all eligible academic staff are included in elections for representation on the APC.

The study analyzed APC agenda items, finding that 75% of items involved reviewing program proposals or program reviews, while strategic planning and other areas received less attention. Interviews with the Dean's office clarified the APC's advisory role in providing a "big picture" view of programs, distinct from the Programs Committee's detailed review. The study also examined the APC's current structure and operations, including membership, terms, and election processes.