After a successful pilot year, Learning in Action, UA’s Quality Enhancement Plan, is entering its second year with a higher profile and a strong focus on distinctive curricular and co-curricular learning outcomes. Increasing numbers of faculty, staff and students from across campus are seeing the possibilities it offers, with the project attracting a diverse group of faculty and staff as it kicks off its second year.
At a recent recognition breakfast, those faculty and staff who planned, implemented and assessed the QEP in 2015-2016 were acknowledged for their contributions and hard work.
The QEP – an essential part of reaffirmation of accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) – is a five-year plan that focuses on improving the educational experience for students. Universities have wide latitude in choosing what aspect of learning to address through a QEP.
As the current QEP for the University, Learning in Action addresses student experiential learning opportunities (ELOs) that teach problem-solving skills. Learning in Action recognizes current high-quality ELOs, improves those that do not already incorporate all best practices and creates new ELOs in areas where there are few.
The plan helps undergraduates develop strong problem-solving skills and connect coursework to real-world contexts.
In addition to acknowledging the many faculty and staff who have made Learning in Action a success so far, the Fall 2016 Fellows were recognized. Fellows are provided with professional development across one academic year. They will be recognized as campus leaders in experiential learning and will have opportunities to learn from colleagues across campus and national leaders in experiential learning.
Learning in Action Fall 2016 Fellows:
- Jennifer Caputo, New College
- Lauren S. Cardon, Arts & Sciences
- George L. Daniels, Communication and Information Sciences
- Jonathon Clay Davis, Enrollment Management
- Isabelle Drewelow, Arts & Sciences
- Maureen Flint, Student Affairs
- Frannie James, Capstone International Programs
- Elle Shabaan- Magaña and Jackie Northrup, Women and Gender Resource Center
- Lane McLelland, Crossroads Community Center
- Charlotte Petonic, Student Health Center
- K. Andrew Richards, Education
- Pamela Derrick and Kristi Wheeler-Griffin, Arts & Sciences and Student Affairs
Learning in Action is directed by staff in the Office of Institutional Effectiveness, a part of the office of Academic Affairs.