The Academic Programs and Curricula Committee (APC) at Chesapeake College plays a critical role in ensuring the effectiveness and alignment of academic programs through rigorous assessment. As a Faculty Standing Committee under the Chesapeake Faculty Assembly, the APC oversees the program review process, tracks curriculum changes, and ensures that program goals and student learning outcomes (SLOs) are aligned with the college’s educational objectives.

Roles and Responsibilities of the APC

The APC is responsible for overseeing all academic assessment activities, ensuring that program goals are clearly articulated and aligned with curriculum objectives. The committee’s key functions include:

  • Overseeing the academic program review process.
  • Tracking the implementation of curriculum changes.
  • Reviewing suggested updates to SLOs to maintain alignment with curriculum mapping.
  • Examining and approving new program and course introductions in the context of the college’s educational goals.

The APC’s functions are integral to the success of academic assessment at Chesapeake College. By involving a broad section of faculty in these activities, the APC ensures that assessment processes are thorough, collaborative, and aligned with institutional priorities. The Director of Assessment serves as an ex-officio member of the APC, providing a direct link between the Office of Institutional Research, Planning, and Assessment (IRPA) and the faculty.

Academic Assessment Tools and Templates

To support these efforts, Chesapeake College uses the Nuventive online Assessment Management System (AMS), which provides a centralized platform for managing program and SLO assessments. Chairs, Deans, and program assessment liaisons have access to Nuventive to facilitate collaboration on assessment reports and track progress throughout the academic year.

Assessment Summary Reports

While the Nuventive AMS is used to manage day-to-day assessment activities, Assessment Summary statements, prepared by Deans and Vice Presidents, are currently organized outside of the platform. These summaries consolidate the results of academic assessments and provide essential data for decision-making on curriculum and resource allocation.