FOCUS!

In November, the QEP (Quality Enhancement Plan) marketing committee launched a naming contest for the First Year Experience program. Over 100 entries were received each demonstrating initiative and thought. The winner was NCC Advertising and Graphic Design student Ekatrina G. Belaya-Sykes. Our QEP is now FOCUS: Fostering Opportunity, Cultivating Unparalleled Success!

We are currently working toward reaffirmation of our accreditation, and, as a part of that process, we are developing a Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP). This is an opportunity for the College to enhance the overall quality and effectiveness of Nash Community College.

Last fall, the QEP Leadership Committee was formed with the object of selecting the QEP topic. Based on research, both on campus and in the community, the topic First Year Experience was selected. The First Year Experience (FYE) program is being designed to help students adapt to the demands and expectations of college, thus empowering them to achieve greater success.

QEP Development Committee

In August of 2009, the QEP Development Committee, comprised of faculty, staff and students, was formed to develop a comprehensive plan of implementation for the First Year Experience including content, timeline, budgets and assessment.

Timeline

By August of 2010 the completed QEP plan will be documented and submitted to the SACS Commission on Colleges. On September 26, 2010 the SACS On Site Review Committee of peers will conduct a campus evaluation.

Learning Outcomes

A focus on student learning provides a framework for developing a meaningful and measurable plan. The QEP Development Committee has established four basic learning themes:

• Engagement - developing a sense of community with the college by establishing relationships with students, faculty and staff
• Goal-Setting - developing a comprehensive plan of study
• Academic Proficiency - improving study skills and accessing college resources
• Life Management Skills - improving time management skills

Core Components of the First Year Experience

Based on committee member recommendations and deliberations from the model research in conjunction with a survey sent to all faculty and staff, the committee selected components to serve as our First Year Experience.

The primary component is the development and implementation of ACA 115 as a required course in all degree programs. This 1 credit/2 contact hour course provides an orientation to the campus resources and academic skills necessary to achieve educational objectives.  Upon completion, students should be able to manage their learning experiences to successfully meet educational goals. A pilot of ACA 115 will begin in the Fall of 2010.  The committee is in the process of determining the specifics of the rollout.