Cleveland State University Self Study 2010 North Central Association/Higher Learning Commission Accreditation

Self Study Process Adapted from a presentation by Dr. John Taylor CSU NCA/HLC Liaison

The value of accreditation? provides both public certification of acceptable institutional quality and an opportunity and incentive for self- improvement. critical self-analysis leading to improvement in quality and for consultation and advice from persons from other organizations

NCA/HLC - What’s That? North Central Association — one of six regional accreditation associations in the U.S., since NCA includes institutions in 19 states. The Higher Learning Commission — the official name of the association, adopted in 2000.

The Commission’s Requirements of a Member Institution Conduct an Institution-wide Self- Study in the Context of the Commission’s Criteria for Accreditation Produce and Submit a Self-Study Report Host an Evaluation Team

Fundamental Shifts from the previous criteria Inputs Teaching Focus on Past Autonomy Outcomes Learning Focus on Future Connectedness, Engagement & Service

2010 Self-study Involves Review of Progress on Earlier Concerns All accreditation requirements met in 2000 –“…the University continues to offer high- quality academic programs that respond to community needs” Two challenges required progress reports Accepted without reservations Good standing with Commission

Five areas to which we must respond in our self-study report. (Listed on your bookmark.) CORE CRITERIA

The organization operates with integrity to ensure the fulfillment of its mission through structures and processes that involve the board, administration, faculty, staff, and students. 1 - Mission & Integrity

The organization’s allocation of resources and its processes for evaluation and planning demonstrate its capacity to fulfill its mission, improve the quality of its education, and respond to future challenges and opportunities. 2 - Preparing for the Future

The organization provides evidence of student learning and teaching effectiveness that demonstrates it is fulfilling its educational mission. 3 - Student Learning and Effective Teaching

The organization promotes a life of learning for its faculty, administration, staff, and students by fostering and supporting inquiry, creativity, practice, and social responsibility in ways consistent with its mission. 4 - Acquisition, Discovery, & Application of Knowledge

As called for by its mission, the organization identifies its constituencies and serves them in ways both value. 5 - Engagement and Service

Hallmarks of An Effective Self-Study Process [HLC Handbook Chapter 5 found at our website] Fits the distinctive nature of the university Ensures effective evaluation of the whole university Produces evidence to show that the Commission’s Criteria for Accreditation and Core Components are met Promises to have an impact on the university beyond the Commission visit

Data Gathering Structure 5 Criteria 21 Core Components –Managed by Core Component Leader 182 “Evidence Examples” –1 or more individuals responsible

POINTS TO REMEMBER The primary purpose of the self-study report is to demonstrate that regular improvement has occurred at our institution, and that plans and planning processes are in place to ensure that it will continue to occur. Please note: “Mission” is not a single document. An institution's distinctiveness should be visible in the actions the institution undertakes as a result of that mission.

POINTS TO REMEMBER All of our material must be thorough, descriptive, and well-documented. Every criterion requires that we have proof of our achievements. We should distinguish our university with the examples we use. The examples we provide are our opportunities to showcase what distinguishes CSU from everyone else. *WE MAY BE COMING TO YOU FOR INFORMATION. PLEASE SUBMIT MATERIAL WHEN REQUESTED.

Timeline Phase 1 Orientation and Planning September/October 2008 (KICK OFF Sept. 11) Phase 2 Information Gathering and Analysis November 2008 – February 2009 Phase 3 Synthesis and Reporting February 2009 – May 2009 Phase 4 Integration and Dissemination Summer 2009 Phase 5 Dissemination, Feedback, Revision, and Submission August 2009 – January 2010

Site Visit March or April 2010 Visiting Team of 6 – 8 Resource Room made available –On campus and Virtual “On call” –Additional data –Special meetings with visiting team

What Is Your Role?  Provide information when requested in a timely manner.  Read and respond to the draft reports when asked, providing corrections, suggestions and additional material as appropriate.  Help prepare the campus and community for the team visit.  Keep informed about the process. Watch for regular updates.

KEEP INFORMED REGULARLY CHECK THE SELF-STUDY WEB SITE: s/selfstudy2010/ s/selfstudy2010/

Questions and Answers Extension 7499