Action Project - Improve Learner Outcomes in Computing

1. Description

Fort Hays State graduates have long been known for their computer skills. In the information age, computer skills of our graduates must evolve to reflect the ever increasing demands in this area. To meet these additional requirements, Fort Hays State is piloting state-of-the-art computer skills pedagogy to keep our students on the leading edge of effectiveness. Students are tested in real-world scenarios, using the most advanced software possible – all to emulate demands of the real world. Technology drives the digital society and mandates increased technical skills of graduates. Fort Hays State University graduates consistently demonstrate well-developed computing skills. FHSU continues to pioneer innovative instructional models to address the needs of students with varying skill sets. Currently, FHSU is piloting a hybrid face-to-face and computer-based instructional model to engage learners and develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills that are mandated in a knowledge society. Using skill-based assessment methods, real world problem-based software emulates demands of the students in the workplace.

2. Related AQIP Categories

Primary 1-Helping Students Learn
Related 2-Accomplishing Other Distinctive Objectives

3. Rationale for Action

The following exigent reasons provide rationale for the importance of this project: 1) Graduates are significantly advanced in their technological skills; 2) Students enter the University with better computing skill sets; 3) Many freshmen hold concurrent credit that may need validation; 4) and FHSU remains committed to graduating students that can use technology to productively compete in the job market.

4. Areas Affected

The following area of the University will be most impacted by this action project: 1) Department of Accounting and Information Systems and the College of Business and Leadership; 2) Mobile Computing Task Force, University Assessment, and Council for Institutional Effectiveness; and 3) Computing and Telecommunications Center, Center for Teaching Excellence and Learning Technology.

5. Processes Affected

The following processes (referenced by AQIP category) will be impacted through this action project:
1P6, 1P7, 1P8, 1P9, 1P10, 1P11, 1P12, 1P13, 2P1, 2P2, 2P3.

6. Process Measures

Monitoring will be ongoing. Monthly Task Force and Council meetings provide a launch point to discuss problems. Close monitoring by the project champion will provide necessary oversight. Annual monitoring is assured due to the convergence between this project and our KBOR Performance Agreement reporting process.

7. Outcome Measures

The following gross measures of effectiveness should be realized upon project completion: 1) Increased direct and embedded assessment results at the program level; 2) Improved results in courses; and 3) Direct feedback from faculty and employers.

8. Keeping Focus

A four-year timeframe seems appropriate given the need to plan, implement, and influence student learning beginning in the freshman year. Implementing lag measures like NSSE and ICT will be valuable for documenting results, but changing results in these measures takes years. Finally, this project aligns with our four year Performance Agreement through the Kansas Board of Regents.