Glossary
Below is a glossary to help our community understand the various technical terminology and acronyms that will be used througout this process.
A plan developed by stakeholders within a higher education institution that serves as a mechanism for the institution to continue to grow its commitment to enhancing quality and effectiveness in the realm of student learning and/or success. The QEP is one of the integral components of CNU’s reaffirmation of accreditation process through our accrediting body, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
A team of faculty and staff, led by a QEP Director, who evaluate institutional data and solicit input from a wide range of stakeholders with the goal of identifying the topic (or focus) of our next QEP. Ultimately, the committee submits its rationale for the top 2-4 topics to President Kelly for consideration.
A team of faculty and staff, led by a QEP Director, who conduct further institutional research and literature review on the selected QEP topic; develop goals, student learning outcomes, and action plans; and, develop an assessment plan that includes measurement tools. Ultimately, the committee crafts a 75-page proposal to submit to SACSCOC for review.
Criteria to be met in order for a proposed topic to be considered, based on guidelines from SACSCOC and with consideration of CNU’s unique context.
A person with an interest or concern in something.
The action or process of officially recognizing a person, group, or organization as having a particular status or being qualified to perform a particular activity. CNU has already been accredited by SACSCOC, and is currently undergoing a process of reaffirming the accreditation.
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, which serves as the accrediting body for CNU along with other degree-granting higher education institutions in the Southern states.
The name for CNU’s strategic planning process, in which an organization defines its vision for the future, identifies goals and objectives, and implements them.
The Office of Research and Creative Activity (ORCA), which was originally named Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity (OURCA), established through CNU’s most recent QEP.