There are five main phases of a program review. Timelines may vary in terms of how long each phase takes and there is overlap between phases.
Phase One – This phase is when the department / program area come together to plan for the process of program review and set intentions for engaging in curriculum renewal and program review activities. This phase ideally takes place in the spring of Year 1.
Phase Two – This is the Data Gathering and Analysis phase. The program review team explore existing data and identify what other information is needed. With the support of the CTLI and Institutional research the program review team write and deploy/host surveys and focus groups, and consolidate, summarize and analyze the data. This phase ideally runs from the fall of Year 1 to the spring of Year 2.
Phase Three – This is the Self-Study phase. The Self-Study is a narrative reflection of the program or department considering feedback from the data gathering and analysis phases, while considering future directions, recommendations, and actions. This phase includes the program review team reviewing the evidence and reflecting on the learning, discussing the Self-Study template and with the support of the CTLI, writing the Self-Study and submitting the final version to the dean. The phase ideally takes place from the winter of Year 1 and is completed by the spring, beginning Year 2.
Phase Four – This is the External Review phase. This involves the external review team (three people – two external to the College and one internal), reading the Self-Study, then coming to the College for a couple of days to meet students, faculty and support members from across the College. The external review team write a summary report with recommendations and suggestions for next steps. This phase ideally takes place from fall of Year 1 and is complete by the end of the winter term Year 2.
Phase Five – This is the Final Report and Action Plan phase. In this phase the program review team consolidates and reflects on what has been learned throughout the process, focusing on the recommendations of the Self-Study and those of the external review team in their report. The Action Plan captures the specific actions the program review team would like to undertake, with specific deliverables and timelines for doing so. This phase is usually completed from the winter term of Year 2 until the following spring term, beginning Year 3. At the end of Year 3 a one-year follow-up report on the activities relating to the Action Plan is sent to the dean, coordinated by the program review lead.