The core of the new QEP topic is the creation and implementation of transformative learning experiences that prepare Georgia Tech students for leadership roles.
Georgia Tech has selected the topic for its next Quality Improvement Plan (QEP), a critical component of the Institute's reaffirmation of accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). After reviewing potential topics, the QEP committee selected “Leadership in Progress and Service: Creating Intentional and Transformative Learning Experiences.” Planning around this new topic will take place over the next year.
Reaffirmation is the process by which Georgia Tech must demonstrate to a review team composed of peer institutions that the Institute is qualified to continue granting academic credit. The QEP should address key issues identified in our continuous assessment process and should also support student learning. The selection committee, co-chaired by Laurence JacobsSenior Vice Provost for Education and Learning, and Steven GirardotVice Provost for Undergraduate Education, reviewed 47 possible topics and found that the focus of the chosen topic was best aligned with the current directions of the Institute. Strategic plan and the Transformative Teaching and Learning (TTL) Strategic Initiative.
The heart of the matter is the creation and implementation of transformative learning experiences that prepare Georgia Tech students for leadership roles. An important aspect will also be focusing on students who may be less likely to participate in existing high-impact practices: under-resourced, limited-income, and first-generation students.
“Georgia Tech is known for developing leaders,” said Steve McLaughlin, dean and executive vice president for academic affairs. “Tomorrow's leaders arrive on our campus with a wide range of academic and life circumstances, which means that a one-size-fits-all college experience is not the best solution to ensure student success. We want all Georgia Tech students to have the resources they need to become the leaders we know they can be, and the topic chosen for our next QEP aims to do just that.
The next step in QEP development will be to define an action plan that includes creating a timeline and budget for implementation. This work will be based operationally within the Office of Undergraduate Education (OUE) and will be executed in collaboration with the Office of Academic Effectivenessas well as faculty, staff and students across campus.
The Institute's reaffirmation of SACSCOC accreditation will occur in 2025, so the QEP design process will take place throughout next year and include opportunities for on-campus engagement from faculty and staff; the creation of a design and planning committee; and the hiring of a QEP educational director. Updates on the process and ways to get involved will be available on the Provost's Quality Improvement Plan webpage.
“An incredible amount of work goes into the process of selecting, designing and implementing QEP topics,” said McLaughlin. “We deeply appreciate the ideas shared by our contributors on campus topics, as well as the thoughtful work of the co-chairs and the selection committee. Reaccreditation is no small task, but the support of Georgia Tech faculty, staff and students will help us bring the topic of QEP to life in a meaningful way.