1 An Example of Transforming the Academic Model: Course Redesign Presentation by William E. Kirwan USM Chancellor Friday, December 3, 2010

2 Philosophy of Course Redesign Addressing how the 21 st century student learns: –Todays freshmen are the first generation of digital natives –Active learning –Social networks –Technology advances USMs initial course redesign efforts based on NCAT model developed by Carol Twigg: –Focus on so-called gatekeeper courses –Large lecture courses, multi-sectional –Lower division

3 Maryland Course Redesign Initiative Pilot Projects At least one redesigned pilot course at each USM institution Use of technology (including online tutorials) Collaborative learning Emphasis on mentoring, tutorials Immediate feedback for students Pilot projects underscored wide applicability of Course Redesign: –Two Biology –One Chemistry –One English –Two Mathematics –One Nursing –Three Psychology

4 Pilot Project Results Every USM pilot project successful –Improved learning outcomes/higher pass rates –Same or reduced costs –Developed expertise to redesign courses in the future Earlier today you heard specific examples –University of Maryland Eastern Shore - Chemistry 101 –Northeast State Community College (Tennessee) – Developmental Writing

5 Course Redesign Next Steps USM using private funds to advance our efforts: –Carnegie Foundation, Lumina Foundation, USM Foundation Appointed five leaders from the first round of course redesign to be USM Course Redesign Fellows Carnegie Award Next Phase of Course Redesign: –Goal---scale up redesigns within the USM –Expect 30 redesigned courses over next 3 years Lumina Grant Next Phase of Course Redesign: –Goal---Provide leadership to expansion of Course Redesign to all Maryland higher education –Expect 25 redesigned courses over 2 years with a focus on developmental and gatekeeper courses

6 Final Thoughts Goal: Turn all 50 or so gatekeeper courses into gateway courses Course Redesign offers an irresistible exacta: –Improved learning outcomes / Lower costs Course Redesign also generates its own momentum –Improved student and faculty satisfaction –Participating faculty become big advocates Course Redesign will be an essential part of the USMs strategic efforts in coming years –A key aspect of our overall efforts to transform the academic model