OVERVIEW OF THE QUALITY ENHANCEMENT PLAN

Focus:
The Quality Enhancement Plan for Gadsden State Community College couples technology and research in an effort to prepare students to utilize available technology in gathering information from a variety of electronic sources. Technology-based Research Across the Curriculum (TRAC) will encourage students to evaluate the authority and usefulness of their sources. Ultimately, students will communicate their findings both orally and in written form using multiple formats.
The QEP attempts to prepare students either to (1) transfer successfully to four-yea-wr institutions with the ability to research and utilize pertinent information in any discipline or (2) function competently in a technology-based work environment. By providing students opportunities to practice these skills in all their courses, they can develop proficiency by the time they leave Gadsden State Community College. Computer competencies, information gathering, and communication are essential skills for success. Student success drives the College’s QEP.

Institutional Capability for the Initiation and Continuation of the Plan:
Gadsden State has maintained multiple grants and managed special programs throughout its history as a community college. The experienced faculty and staff are well-equipped to handle the day-to-day oversight of the QEP. The budget provides sufficient funds for the personnel, assessment tools, and technology to maintain and continue TRAC. Administrative support will enable the appointed members of the implementation committee to function throughout the five-year plan and beyond.

tAssessment of the Plan:
Instructors in all disciplines will work towards implementing technology-based research activities and/or projects. Within disciplines, divisions, and programs, instructors will develop rubrics or other means to assess students’ ability to use specific technology for various avenues of research. The Standardized Assessment of Information Literacy (SAILS) test will be used initially to determine students’ abilities to gather information. Using this baseline information, instructors can then track students through different stages in their academic and/or technical programs. Additional methods of assessment will be used throughout the implementation period, including formative and summative evaluations that are both quantitative and qualitative.

Broad Based Involvement of the Community:
From the initial call for ideas and possible topics, the QEP Committee has made a concerted effort to canvas all campuses, including every department, division, and program. Members have welcomed ideas from staff, faculty, and administration. The Committee has attempted to build a consensus among its members who, in turn, have solicited input from their respective areas. Gadsden State’s website and internal home page have been utilized to disseminate information to the college community, to seek ideas and suggestions as the plan was being developed, and to promote interest and participation. The final product incorporates a significant aspect of the College’s mission, that of enriching the educational experiences of all Gadsden State students.