Learning Resources

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: When the world went online, what were the inherent advantages (and challenges) for an institution already based on a distributed education model? Laurie Shanderson discusses the ways her university’s established operations made the transition easier, and why connected communication and integrated planning have been essential to their continued success.

Abstract: Dr. Doreen Larson, president of Edison State Community College in Piqua, Ohio, discusses the ways her team used the power of advance planning to take control and thrive during the COVID-19 crisis. Learn about their online initiative, expansion of technology in a rural community, and how they’re growing enrollment in an uncertain time.

Abstract: Support for underrepresented students must continue now and in a post-COVID-19 world. How is this getting tackled in an all-women’s undergrad program that serves underrepresented students? Pat McGuire, president of Trinity Washington University (DC), discusses her university’s approach—from crisis planning through contingency planning.

Abstract: This article presents a case study of the virtual strategic planning process at Northcentral University’s School of Business. Anchoring in practices proven successful in a face-to-face environment, we describe the unique challenges of effective strategic planning for an individual school—when complicated by a solely virtual, distributed environment. We share the tools and techniques we leveraged for each phase of our work, which facilitated overcoming the distance among members of our school community.

Abstract: In April of 2017 the University System of Georgia (USG) launched a system wide initiative, known as the Comprehensive Administrative Review (CAR). The charge was to identify and implement administrative service improvement, efficiencies, and administrative cost savings that can be redirected to student success efforts and core academic programs. As Chair of the CAR Steering Committee, Dr. Marrero will outline the objectives of the CAR, the process, implementation and reporting structures, and the results to date. Furthermore, as a President of two USG comprehensive universities during the process of and initial implementation of CAR (University of West Georgia and Georgia Southern University), Dr. Marrero will provide an institutional perspective and insight into building a culture of high performance with a focus on evidence-based leadership, accountability, and continuous improvement. The session will highlight why investing in and engaging your people is critical in building a culture of continuous improvement.

Abstract: Working across boundaries is essential for student success, but also incredibly difficult to do. This session looks at the collaboration between enrollment management and departmental faculty—specifically the planning, monitoring, and communication of student progress in an online doctoral program. You will learn techniques to improve communication between departments that historically work independent of each other, along with opportunities for future interdepartmental partnerships that improve student success.

Abstract: This article discusses furthering research on distance education and technological advancements across institutions through the launching of a national research center. Specifically, the authors discuss developing an institutional capacity to conduct research, harnessing resources to support research, leading research initiatives and collaborations, and mapping the future of data collection and analysis.