From the Executive Director
Russell G. Fitzgerald, Ed.D.
Student Learning and Transparency
Are colleges and universities demonstrating that their students are learning in meaningful ways that will draw prospectives to their doors?
Additionally are they using publications and their web pages to show that students who attend and have gone on to graduate were satisfied with what they learned and that they were prepared adequately in essential areas such as critical thinking, problem solving, writing, speaking.
Institutions today are responsible for developing creative and effective practices in addressing student learning outcomes and in a transparent way communicate the results to the general public. TRACS and other recognized accrediting agencies are more and more examining institutions in this most important area.
Students and parents in an era of rising tuition are looking for institutions in their marketing processes to provide data in the area of student learning outcomes.
Christian institutions should not forget that affective development is also an important value added part of student learning and should be communicated in a meaningful fashion to parents, students and the general public.
TAKE NOTE:
Renewel of the Higher Education Act, HR4137, will require institutions to disclose their credit transfer policy.
Did You Know...
TRACS is currently working with over 100 institutions, 52 of which are accredited or candidates for accreditation. Currently TRACS has 10 active applicants being reviewed by the Applicant Review Committee.
Accreditation Commission to Convene for Spring Meeting
The TRACS Accreditation Commission is set to convene for its Spring meeting April 13-15 at the Founders Inn & Spa in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Those serving on the Commission or slated to appear may reserve hotel rooms online at the Founders Inn now. TRACS has negotiated a special rate of $109 per person, per night plus tax, single or double occupancy. The deadline for reserving is MARCH 14. The special rate will NOT be offered after this date and rooms may not be available, so reserve early.
Visit Calendar of Events for a link to the hotel reservations page. Or, if you prefer to phone in your reservation, you may call the Founders Inn at 800.926.4466. Be sure to mention code 36865 to receive the special rate.
Upcoming Team & Staff Visits
March 17-20, 2008
Team Visit to Agape College (AR) for Candidacy
March 31-April 3, 2008
Team Visit to Clinton Junior College (SC) for Reaffirmation I
For a complete list of upcoming Team, Staff, Focus & QCR Visits please view the
Calendar of Events page on the TRACS Web site.