University of Saskatchewan
External Review of Advising
Terms of Reference
Purpose:
This external review of the connectivity of the campus-wide advising system
will inform a report to the Provost and Vice-President Academic describing
the current state of undergraduate advising across campus, a business case
for enhancing the current system and an outline of recommendations,
including the challenges and opportunities of each, for an enhanced system.
This report will recommend a campus vision for student advising, and will
articulate the roles and responsibilities of various contributors to student
advising, including faculty, professional advisors, student services
administrative staff and senior students.
Background:
While the university and colleges have made significant investments in
advising over the years, additional, new investments seem likely in this
planning cycle. The undergraduate student forum clearly identified a need
for enhancements to the campus-wide student advising system. Although
there is agreement among the key stakeholders that the campus-wide
student advising system should be enhanced, the precise ways in which this
should occur need to be better understood before decision makers are asked
to make the new investments that are likely necessary. This project aims to
develop the necessary understanding of the gaps and opportunities in this
area.
Funding:
The Provost’s Committee on Integrated Planning (PCIP) has approved
funding for a review of the campus-wide advising system.
Nature of the Study:
A recognized and impartial third party will be contracted to conduct a
comprehensive study of the connectivity of the campus-wide advising
system.
To be reviewed:
Connectivity of the campus-wide system
Outcomes of the Study:
A qualified external agency (e.g. National Academic Advising Association) will
be retained to conduct a review which will include on-site visits and peer
institution comparisons to identify gaps and strengths in the campus-wide
system.
Timeline:
The external review of advising should take place no longer than mid-March
2010 with a report available to the Provost and VP Academic and the
steering committee no later than mid-April 2010 in permit the steering
committee to draft an implementation plan and budget request prior to the
June 1, 2010 Academic Priorities Fund deadline.
DRAFT as of February 1, 2010