Averett University (2007) submitted a Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools' Commission on Colleges. Averett University (2007) titled the plan "Reading Critically for Success" and stated that its intent was to redirect the institutions' academic focus and resources to address the problems that are associated with diminished student interest and competencies regarding reading at the post secondary level. Using data gathered via student and faculty surveys along with a review of relevant research and best practices, Averett's (2007) QEP presents a restructured university-wide strategy whose goal is to establish a culture of reading across the traditional undergraduate program. This essay evaluates the Averett (2007) QEP and considers issues regarding its structure and assessment strategies.
The first issue addressed herein is an identification of the structure or components of the QEP. The three central components of the Averett (2007) QEP were: the training of faculty by skilled consultants who were oriented toward enhancing student reading skills and interests; academic support services including peer tutoring and a new online Successful Reading program; and reading related opportunities on campus. These basic components are augmented by an Assessment Subcommittee which will conduct assessments that will be integrated into the annual review of institutional effectiveness goals and evaluation process. There is a standing committee to oversee the implementation of this QEP in the context of the university's strategic plan.
The second issue is how well Averett (2007) responded to criteria for plan assessment. Criteria for assessment of the plan are delineated within the QEP. Overall, the Averett Strategic Plan incorporates the "Reading Critically for Success" QEP with the goal of establishing a 60 percent graduation rate. The primary measure, therefore, is the 60 percent ...