Open Forum International Education Task Force October 30, 2012
Task Force Members Kate Hawkins, Chair (Dean, CHBS) Steve Arbury (Art), Maggie Bassett (Nursing), Dennis Grady (Dean, Graduate College), Jim Lollar (Marketing), Agida Manizade (Math and Statistics), Tracey Mattson (Director, LARC), Teresa O’Bannon (Recreation, Parks and Tourism), Richard Straw (History), Jolanta Wawrzycka (English) Bill Kennan (Vice Provost, Academic Affairs), Teresa King (Director, IEC)
Task Force Goals Increase participation in international education (broadly defined). Identify desired student learning outcomes for international education along with the means to assess them in a reliable and valid way. Examine the structure and function of the RU International Education Center (IEC) with the goal of maximizing its effectiveness.
Task Force Research Searched relevant literature Reviewed available records re/international education at RU Engaged two consultants Dr. Jesse Lutabingwa, Associate Vice Chancellor, Office of International Education and Development, Appalachian State University Dr. Sean Williams, Professor and Chair, Department of English, Clemson University (Past Associate Dean of Graduate Studies at Clemson)
Task Force Research Interviewed Dr. Uliana Gabara, Director and Associate Provost of International Education, University of Richmond COMS 605 graduate class Moderated focus group interviews with faculty and students (N=34) Conducted online surveys with faculty and students (N=233) Researched international education at peer institutions
Recommendations (N=42) Grouped by goal Divided into three time frames Immediate: by the end of the academic year (N=18) Short term: by the end of the academic year (N=15) Longer term: academic year and beyond (N=9)
Recommendations Implemented or In Progress Modifying recruitment materials for international audiences Better educating students and parents about options for study abroad, including costs Asking faculty traveling internationally to build relationships with colleagues and institutions abroad Recognizing RU students who have studied abroad (t-shirts, honor cords)
Recommendations Implemented or In Progress Systematizing review of study abroad proposals, starting at the department level (learning outcomes, assessment, student safety) Pilot testing new assessment models (ePortfolios) Upgrading IEC website Enhancing safety of faculty and students studying abroad (Emergency Action Plan) Developing diversity in study abroad options (Exchange Programs)
Recommendations Implemented or In Progress Clarifying role of study abroad in students’ curriculums (advising checksheets specifically designed for study abroad) Working to have study abroad approved as an option for fulfilling “Global Perspective” Core Curriculum requirement Collaborating with University Advancement to pursue private support for international education efforts
Next steps Investigating relationship with ELS Language Centers to offer ESL training on campus Hiring a permanent director for the IEC
Questions?