SACS as an opportunity to advance library programs The University of Miami QEP ASERL Williamsburg, April 2009

Library involvement in University- wide reaffirmation planning Dean on SACS Leadership Group Deputy University Librarian on QEP Planning Committee Dean on QEP Implementation Committee

Understanding the reaffirmation process and QEP development Attend the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools – Commission on Colleges Annual Conference in Atlanta 5-8 December

University of Miami’s SACS documentation:

Miami’s QEP Communication across the Curriculum – Extend the scope of information acquisition and communication of knowledge in the undergraduate experience through: Faculty development Infrastructure upgrades Introduction of QEP enhanced courses

Miami’s QEP Focus on Technology and Information literacy Use of new media Focus on oral presentation skills “Visual, aural and written modes of expression will be combined in the form of online and interactive projects.”

Miami’s QEP “The best-laid plans of mice and men/ often go awry”

QEP’s focus was actually faculty development QEP lacked specificity in selection and assessment of proposed Faculty Teaching Fellowships Focus on new media and oral communications was too broad During campus visit, the Reaffirmation Committee recommended:

Revised QEP Focuses on Faculty Development Establishes Faculty Learning Communities Narrows initial focus to digital technology and information literacy concepts

Faculty Learning Communities to enhance undergraduate education; with an initial focus on information, communication, and technology literacy

Miami FLCs Weekly meeting based in Library Focus on Information and Communication Literacy (ICT) Assessment through iSkills exam Developing new media courses (must teach three time over next five years)