Learning Resources

Abstract: In difficult times, planning and the successful implementation of that planning require the buy-in and support of a whole range of stakeholders–but particularly the faculty, since they carry out the institution’s teaching and research missions.

Faculty can make or break successful planning.

An institution must be very circumspect in their choice of representative faculty for planning groups, how they are engaged in the planning process, and how they interact with other campus constituencies for maximum buy-in. This endeavor is particularly difficult when the new planning process follows previous attempts that have failed because of faculty resistance or lack of meaningful involvement. This session details successful planning initiatives at two regional universities, one in the Midwest and one in the southern Northeast, where earlier planning efforts failed because of “the faculty factor.”

Join us to explore the successes and failures involved in these two planning initiatives that required broad-based faculty support in order to reverse issues with programmatic quality, student success, and institutional accreditation.

Abstract: All program decisions have financial consequences—and some may surprise you. We will share a methodology for analyzing instructional economics and strategies for incorporating this data into the program decision-making process for long-term financial health. Understanding the economics of your programs and courses can help you focus resources on the programs and courses most critical to your mission and free up funds for strategic growth.

Abstract: This is part one of a three-part program series, “Integrated Planning to Build a Thriving Academic Program Portfolio.” These discussions will help you build a strategic and sustainable program portfolio that is mission-centered, data-informed, student-centered, and focused on growth opportunities.

Abstract: Even with a brief head start when COVID-19 forced all instruction online, Florida Atlantic University’s six campuses still had a lot of work to do. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Bret Danilowicz discusses how their online-experienced faculty stepped up to assist colleagues, how he’s prioritizing to ensure continuity and assess capital projects, and the importance of pulling together as a community to find ways to help beyond academics.

Abstract: In this conversation, William Knight, Assistant Provost for Institutional Research and Effectiveness, Miami University, addresses how his team has developed data dashboards for administration and faculty to provide insight into Learning Management System (LMS) use, enrollment projections, and overall student access and success. He then discusses trends he’s noticed at HLC and thoughts on how campuses can begin discussions around staff capacity, curriculum success, and sunsetting programs, ultimately strengthening their sustainability and easing accreditation work.

Dr. Bill Knight has two roles on campus—working on IR and IE, and serving as the accreditation liaison. He is also a peer reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Host: Nicholas Santilli, Senior Director of Learning Strategy, SCUP, and Former Provost, John Carroll University