When does the Data Gathering phase begin? Data gathering is Phase Two of the program review process and begins after key individuals to the process have come together to discuss the key questions that need to be addressed by the review and the sources of data that need to be gathered. This includes having already reflected on what program renewal activities need feedback and further input.
What are the main sources of data we should access? This depends on the department / program area and can include: Institutional Research Package Data (e.g., headcount, FTE enrolment and retention rates, course completion rates, feedback from graduates via BC Student Outcomes surveys); feedback through surveys, interviews and focus groups with students, alumni, faculty, employers and community members; other data sources relevant to the program area.
How do we start the process? The program review team comes together to create a plan, including what information needs to be gathered, ideas for how to collect this information and ‘who will do what.’ CTLI can help facilitate this discussion.
What resources are available to help us collect data? The Centre for Teaching and Learning Innovation and the Institutional Research and Planning Department are both available to support you survey tools, creating surveys, planning and running focus groups etc.
How long do we have to complete data collection? This depends on your department’s / program area’s plan. Ideally this phase should take about three months.
Other useful resources:
BCIT Program Review Manual – section IV (pages 28-30 discuss research and data collection)