ACCREDITING COUNCIL FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION & TRAINING September 13-14, 2010 Irvine, California Planning Personnel Management Communication Governance

ACCREDITING COUNCIL FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION & TRAINING

ACCET Accreditation Workshop September 13-14, 2010

Irvine, California

Planning

Personnel Management

Communication

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Inst

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Rec

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Att

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Student Services

Student Progress

Completion & Placement Mission Finances Curriculum

Inst

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Instructional Personnel

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Evaluation & Documentation

• Scott Faulstick - Senior Accreditation Coordinator – Chair: Program Review Committee – Co-Chair: Application Review Committee (Initial) – Commission Liaison: Appeals Panel

• Linsay Oakden - Accreditation Coordinator – Chair: Branching Review Committee – Commission Liaison: Completion/Placement Review

Committee

Introduction of Presenters

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• Roger J. Williams - Executive Director • Charles Matterson - Associate Executive

Director – Chair: On-Site Evaluation Review Committee – Commission Liaison: Financial Review Committee

• Judy Hendrickson - Associate Executive Director – Chair: Change of Ownership Review Committee – Commission Liaison: Standards & Policy Review

Committee – ISO 9001:2000 Manager

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Introduction to ACCET Staff

• John Gregg - Accreditation Coordinator – Co-Chair: Application Review Committee

(Reaccred.)

• Kristin Georger - Accreditation Coordinator – Commission Liaison: Financial Review Committee

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• Commission Representatives (Outside): – Vickey Hey– Thomas Tillia – Julia Laughland

• Administrative Staff: – Anneka Swamy, Operations Administrator – Mischelle Boatwright, Administrative Assistant – Katelyn Schreyer, Administrative Assistant

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Name

Title

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Introduction by Attendees

Establishment of Agency ◦ Established in 1974 as a private, non-profit 501(c)

(3) corporation by continuing education providers, principally associated with the Dale Carnegie organization.

Diversity/Scope of Membership ◦ Approximately 640 training sites (approx. 50%

vocational & 50% avocational/professional development). Members offer continuing education, certificate and diploma programs, Occupational Associate Degrees (OAD), and interactive distance education (IDL).

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Overview

Recognition of ACCET ◦ “Recognized" by the U.S. Department of

Education (DOE) as a "reliable authority“ for the evaluation of postsecondary institutions since 1978.

ACCET received a 5-year grant of recognition (the maximum length) in 2007.

ACCET certified under ISO 9001: 2000 international standards as a Quality Management System since 1998.

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Overview

Institutional Accreditation ◦ ACCET evaluates post-secondary

institutions/organizations, in accordance with 33 Standards for Accreditation.

Colleagues/Peer Review ◦ Member institutions viewed as colleagues, not

customers, and the public interest is both primary and complementary to ACCET’s mission.

ACCET Accrediting Commission, volunteers, evaluators and staff provide professional peer expertise, with working knowledge and experience in the field.

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Overview

• ACCET Accrediting Commission – An autonomous eleven-member Accrediting

Commission, with six institutional (elected) members, and five public (appointed) members, has ultimate authority over ACCET activities.

• ACCET Staff – Ten staff and four contract field representatives

conduct the day-to-day operations under the authority delegated to the Executive Director.

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Overview

Self-Regulation ◦ Accreditation is a non-governmental, voluntary

oversight process to assess and enhance the integrity and quality of education/training offered by postsecondary institutions.

A reliable methodology is utilized to evaluate operational functions for systematic and effective implementation and to identify areas for institutional self-improvement.

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Overview

Standards, Policies and Procedures ◦ Standards for Accreditation (Document 2) are the

guiding criteria under which the Accrediting Commission exercises its professional judgment.

◦ Standards were last revised, with the approval of the membership, effective October 2005.

◦ Policies and procedures are adopted by the Accrediting Commission, following appropriate call-for-comment, to augment and facilitate the interpretation of the standards in order to assure sound operational practices.

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Overview

Quality Assurance◦ As “A Partnership for Quality®”, the ACCET

accreditation process represents an organizational commitment to standards, practices, and processes focused on operational integrity and quality training.

◦ This peer review evaluation process serves to inspire continuing education and training that is current, relevant and educationally sound.

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Purpose and Benefit of Accreditation

Gatekeeper Functions Title IV Funding

◦ Accredited vocational institutions are eligible to seek approval for federal student aid (e.g.Pell Grants, Direct Loans, FFEL, Plus) Department of Homeland Security

Department of Homeland Security◦ Intensive English Programs and other accredited institutions may seek

authorization from the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (BICE) to enroll foreign, non-immigrant students under F, M, and J visas. Additionally, the recertification process is simplified for accredited schools.

Department of Defense Programs ◦ Tuition reimbursement for military personnel is limited to enrollment at

postsecondary institutions accredited by agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

State and Local Funding Programs ◦ Accreditation assists institutions in pursuing contractual affiliations with

welfare, rehabilitation, and other workforce development programs.

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Training Contracts - ◦ Accreditation assists institutions seeking contracts with corporations and

government agencies, which often require accreditation as a condition to bid on training proposals.

Directory/Website Listings ◦ ACCET accredited institutions are listed in the following directories utilized

by corporate, government, and military agencies to identify credible educational organizations when establishing tuition reimbursement policies: American Council on Education (ACE) directory of Accredited Institutions of

Postsecondary Education Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) website at

www.chea.org/search

edu Domain: ◦ Accreditation permits institutions to file with Educause for the use of

the .edu domain for email and website addresses.

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http://www.chea.org/search

Take a proactive approach to the process

Maintain an institutional-wide commitment to the process

Emphasize outcomes – achieving specified learning goals

Strive for continuous improvement through ongoing internal review

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Embrace the Process

ACCREDITATION Schedule and General Overview

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1. Application (Doc. 4) submitted by institution 2. Application reviewed by ACCET staff (2-4 Months)3. Additional information requested by ACCET (if

necessary)4. Attendance at Accreditation Workshop5. Preparation & submission of electronic Analytic Self-

Evaluation Report (eASER) by institution6. On-site team visit & Team Report (2-day visit & Team

Report sent within 30 days of visit)7. Institution’s response to Team Report (due within 14

days)8. Accrediting Commission’s review and decision9. Commission letter (within 30 days of Commission

Meeting

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Accreditation Process/Timeframe(Approximately 12 months)

Application for Accreditation

Document 4

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Accreditation Review ScheduleAPP. PKG. eMAILING

APPLICATION

eASER/BASER

DOCUMENT 8

ON-SITE EVALUATION

COMMISSION MTG.

Aug. 14, 2009 Dec. 18, 2009 March 12,

2010 May - June 2010 Aug. 2 - Aug. 6, 2010

Dec. 18, 2009

April 16, 2010 July 16, 2010 Sept. - Oct. – 2010 Nov. 30 - Dec. 4,

2010

Apr. 16, 2010Aug. 20, 2010Nov. 12, 2010 Jan. – Feb. 2011 March 28 – Apr. 1, 2011

Aug. 13, 2010 Dec. 17, 2011Mar. 11, 2011 May – June 2011 Aug. 1-5, 2011

Overview of Electronic Analytic Self-Evaluation

Report (eASER)Documents: 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.2/3ESL (Combined)

Overlay Templates: 3.ESL, 3.VESL, 3.IDL, 3.OAD, 3.MT, 3.NAH

Obtain support at the highest level

Commit resources

Start early

Assign a champion

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Developing the eASER

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Developing the eASER Involve the entire staff

Conduct regular meetings

Develop/implement new policies and procedures, as needed

Tell the “story” of your institution

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Developing the eASER Use the current and appropriate ACCET

Document 3

Gather supporting documentation

Assemble the eASER

EDIT, EDIT, EDIT

Title Page

Table of Contents

Institutional Summary Profile

Written narrative addressing the eight standards (33 subsections)

Standards that do not apply

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Structure of Your eASER Narrative

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Supporting Documentation Documents supplementing narrative

response to questions and requirements

Types of exhibits

Representative sample

Cross-referenced in eASER/BASER narrative

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Any Additional Sites Must be referenced in:

◦ The application (Document 4)◦ eASER/BASER

1) Submit eASER/BASER in CD format:

Due to the ACCET office by November 12, 2010

eASER/BASER copied onto CD’s:– 2 copies to ACCET– 1 copy to each team member

On-site fees and Document 8 Form

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Two Ways to Submission ASER

2) Test Drive the new ACCET database

You may choose to pilot the new ACCET database and submit all ASER

information online, using the new ACCET Management System.

Extension of ASER due date (not Doc 8 and fees) to December 5, 2010

Two Ways to Submission ASER

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Database Demonstration

Call ACCET for assistance:

◦ Our staff is here to help you. ◦ Never hesitate to call with any questions,

concerns, or for guidance.

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Need Help….

Team composition:

◦ Management Specialist/Chair

◦ Curriculum Specialist(s)

◦ Commission Representative

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On-Site Review Team

No conflict real or perceived

Approved by institution

All materials confidential

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On-Site Review Team Selection

To be sent electronically by ACCET before the visit:◦ Confirmation letter ◦ Checklist of materials to be available for team ◦ Memorandum for on-site team visit ◦ Team member roster ◦ Letter of invitation sent to state licensing agency

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Visit Materials

Prior to the Visit:

◦ Review ACCET Documents

◦ Study eASER

◦ Identify issues for Clarification

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Team Member Responsibilities

During the Visit:◦ Validate eASER representations◦ Observe, interview, collect data/documentation◦ Confer in team meetings◦ Summarize pertinent facts◦ Discuss/propose ratings, strengths, weaknesses◦ Write assigned standards for Team Report

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Team Member Responsibilities

Provide for the Team:◦ Private room/space for the team ◦ Documents requested on the Preparation

Checklist ◦ Any changes since the submittal of eASER ◦ Current organizational chart

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Preparation for the Visit

1. A complete paper copy of the institution’s eASER/BASER, including all exhibits.

2. A completed copy of the program chart listing all approved programs and enrollment/staffing information (see www.accet.org/Documents and Forms/Fillable Documents).

3. A complete roster of all active students, including start dates, and a listing of students on leave of absence (LOA).

4. A listing of all students who graduated, withdrew, or were terminated within the past 12 months.

5. List of all students by name, program title, certificate/license sought, and date of graduation who were eligible for, attempted, or attained certification/licensure within the past 12 months (Vocational).

6. A current organizational chart with names and job titles.7. An updated staff turnover listing and calculated rates (separately for

full/part time) since the submission of the eASER/BASER.8. Schedules for all faculty and administrative staff during the visit,

including room locations, break times, office/teaching hours, and courses/classes being taught.

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Preparation Checklist for ACCET On-Site Examination Visit

9. Correspondence files of all communications with ACCET, state and federal agencies.

10. Administrative operations/procedures manual. if not included in its entirety in the eASER/BASER.

11. Personnel policies/employee handbook, if not included in its entirety in the eASER/BASER.

12. A listing of who is responsible for and the location of personnel records for all employees, including any new or updated resumes or ACCET Document 6s - Personnel Form, job descriptions, and performance evaluations.

13. Minutes of all staff and faculty meetings for the past 12 months14. ACCET Document 50FR – On-site Examination Team Financial Review

Checklist. 15. ACCET Document 50FA – On-site Financial Aid Review Checklist/ Guidelines

(Title IV eligible).16. ACCET Document 50I – On-site Immigration Compliance Checklist/ Guidelines

(Institutions authorized to enroll F1/M1 visa students).17. State-licensing agency's cancellation and refund policy (if applicable).18. Complete sets of curricular materials, including syllabi, lesson plans/ instructor

guides, testing and evaluation tools, text materials, and student performance standards

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19. Current school catalog and completed ACCET Document 29 - Catalog Guidelines and Checklist (Vocational)

20. Current enrollment agreement and completed ACCET Document 29.2 - Enrollment Agreement Checklist (Vocational). NOTE: Avocational institutions must provide only a copy of their enrollment agreement/student application

21. Sample entrance examinations/criteria/test scores used to accept students (i) with a high school diploma/GED and/or (ii) who are admitted on a designated ability-to-benefit admissions basis

22. Samples of all advertising/promotional materials used by the school at any time during the past 12 months

23. Most recent fire and safety inspection certificates24. Year-to-date ACCET Document 28.1 - Completion and Placement Statistics

for each program (Vocational)25. Names and email addresses of current students, graduates in the last 12

months, and 10 employers. 26. ACCET Document 12 – Annual Report and Enrollment Statistics completed

for your institution’s most recent fiscal year ending (Initial Applicants).

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Introductory meeting Tour of facility Information gathering process Exit briefing

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The Visit

Consensus document Draft report reviewed and verified by Team

Chair Team Report sent electronically to

institution within 30 days of visit

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Team Report

4 – Exceeds standard 3 - Acceptable and meets standard 2 - Weak, some changes needed to meet

standard 1 - Unacceptable, major changes needed to

meet standard

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Team ReportACCET Rating Scale

Submit response within 14 calendar days of receipt of Team Report.

Respond in response boxes embedded in Team Report.

Prepare response with the same thought and thoroughness as eASER/BASER.

Address any weakness cited in Team Report and referenced to a specific standard.

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Responding to Weaknesses

Link and clearly reference the exhibits that support response.

Ensure that response clearly reflects understanding of : 1. Cited weakness(es), 2. Corrective action taken, and 3. Evidence that corrective actions were

systematically and effectively implemented.

Submit ASER online – respond to team report online.

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Responding to Weaknesses

• Possible Commission Actions: – Accredit/Approve – Defer – Deny

• Consensus Process • Written notification sent electronically

(within 30 days of Commission Meeting) • Official Commission’s actions not revealed,

prior to Commission letters being sent

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Commission Meeting

I. MissionII. Management III. FinancesIV. Curricula V. Instructional Delivery VI. Instructional Personnel VII. Admissions and Student Services VIII. Evaluation

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ACCET Accreditation Standards

A school's mission statement is a constant reminder to its employees of why the school exists and what the founders envisioned when they put their fame and fortune at risk to breathe life into their dreams.

Woe to the school that loses sight of its Mission Statement for it has taken the first step on the slippery slope to failure.

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Mission

A. Mission Statement: • The institution clearly states its mission,

thereby providing a definitive basis upon which to deliver and assess the education and training programs in an ethical, quality management environment.

• The reasons for offering the education and training are consistent with the institution’s mission and are documented by either a needs assessment or market experience.

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Standard I - Mission

A Mission Statement communicates the institution’s purpose and objectives.

The mission contains your school's "winning idea" - separates you from your competitors.

Is the institution meeting its mission? What

criteria is used to measure success?

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Consider this…

How do you measure and verify that training is consistent with:◦ your stated mission; and◦ needs assessment or market experience.

The mission is refined to create a concise and precise statement which expresses your ◦ purpose,◦ measurements of success,◦ results

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More…

B. Goals:Broad institutional goals are clearly stated,

inform and support the mission statement, and are understood at all levels of the organization.

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Goals must be:◦ Tied to the mission. ◦ Understood at all levels of the institution. ◦ Re-evaluated periodically to ensure relevance to

the institution’s mission.

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Consider this…

• To provide programs of study that are educationally sound, up-to-date, of high quality and demonstrably effective.

• To maintain a clear and consistent admissions process that accurately represents the program and the institution while producing enough enrollments to sustain the institutions.

• To provide effective student services that recognize individual differences and to ensure successful student retention, graduation, and employability where applicable.

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Examples of Institutional Goals

• To establish and maintain employer relationships to ensure industry contacts necessary for student success.

• To demonstrate the effectiveness of private educational training, thereby providing essential skills to support a productive workforce.

• To ensure proper and ethical administration of all financial aspects of the institution.

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Examples of Institutional Goals

C. Planning: • The institution has sound, written one-year and

longer-range plans that encompass both the educational and business objectives of the institution.

• The plans support the mission, facilitate the accomplishment of the institutional goals, and are updated at least annually.

• The plans include clearly defined specific objectives and operational strategies with time frames, resources, and measurable results identified for subsequent evaluation.

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Only a budget

A market research report/analysis

A to-do list or wish list

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A Business Plan Is NOT…

• Supports the Mission

• Relates to Institutional Objectives

• Facilitates your ability to provide quality training

• Addresses various aspects of school operations

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A Business Plan …

S - Specific M - Measurable A - Attainable R - Resources Allocated T - Time Based E - Evaluated R - Revised

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A Business Plan Is…

Which of these is specific?◦ Raise the profile of the school◦ Improve marketing literature◦ Enhance curriculum◦ Provide catalog in Spanish◦ Increase gross revenue by 10%

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S - SPECIFIC

Which of these are measurable?◦ Diversify the student body◦ Enhance student services◦ Increase enrollment in each program by 10%◦ Obtain student feedback

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M – MEASURABLE

Which of these is attainable?◦ Double enrollment next term◦ Increase applications by 4 per week◦ Build new building to house all school functions◦ 100% student satisfaction

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A - ATTAINABLE

Financial Personnel Equipment Materials Who is responsible?

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R – RESOURCES ALLOCATED

Which of these is time based?◦ Open a new branch◦ Offer internet based student evaluations by

December 2011◦ Increase revenue by 10% in 2011◦ Expand web activity

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T – TIME BASED

Written policy for regular review Status reports – oral or written Administrative staff meetings Regular budget reviews Year-end reports Documentation of all of the above

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E - EVALUATE

Determine obstacles or problems Plan alternatives Determine if change is required Adjust plan in response to current

conditions Re-write/communicate new plans

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R - REVISE

A. Governance:• The institution has a governing board and/or

senior management team that is responsible for developing and maintaining an effective framework of written strategies and policies.

• This management structure ensures the integrity and effectiveness of the institution and its compliance with statutory, regulatory, and accreditation requirements.

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Standard II-Management

• Clearly and accurately describe:– Ownership

• Breakdown of the owners and their percentage ownership

• Type of legal entity (e.g. non-profit/for-profit & Inc./LLC.)

– Senior Management • Structure, relations to owners, reporting

requirements • Titles, responsibilities, authority

– Process for developing, disseminating, and revising policies & procedures • Examples

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Key Points

Compliance with State, federal, accreditation requirements:◦ State license and expiration date ◦ Approved programs (consist with state & ACCET

approvals) ◦ SEVIS approval (ACCET Document 50-I)◦ Department of Veterans Affairs, WIA, etc.

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Key points

Before submitting the eASER: ◦ Written policies and procedures should be fully

developed (revised, as necessary), implemented, and reviewed for effectiveness.

◦ Operational and educational systems should be developed and tested to ensure systematic and effective implementation.

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Consider this…

B. Operational Management:• Operational management is responsible for

systematically and effectively implementing the strategies and policies of senior management within an organizational framework that is clearly defined, understood, and effective.

• Written policies and procedures guide the day-to-day operations of the institution.

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Standard II - Management

• Who are in charge of day-to-day operations? Identify Operational Management. – Identify individual titles, roles, authority, reporting – Provide an organizational chart

• How does management ensure systematic and effective implementation of policies and procedures?– Describe how faculty/staff feedback is solicited – Provide examples of faculty/staff feedback being used to

change policies/procedures

• What is the impact of accreditation on the quality and effectiveness of the institution?

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Key points

• Is management knowledgeable and supportive of the accreditation process? Do they embrace the process?

• Are staff/faculty knowledgeable and supportive of the accreditation process?

• Who is going to be involved and at what level?

• Do you regularly discuss at staff/faculty meetings:1. The accreditation process2. eASER preparation3. Visit preparation

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Consider this…

C. Personnel Management:• Management develops, implements, and

maintains overall policies and procedures for the systematic and effective recruitment, selection, hiring, and retention of all personnel.

• Management provides orientation, supervision, evaluation, and training and development of its employees to ensure that qualified and capable personnel, at appropriate staffing levels, are placed and effectively utilized.

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• Develop and distribute an employee handbook/manual with written personnel policies.

• Establish a process and schedule for formal personnel evaluations to occur at least annually.

• Create a checklist and audit personnel files for completeness to include:– Current personnel evaluations – ACCET Document 6/resumes– Evidence of in-service and other professional development– W-4 and I-9

• Monitor staff turnover and take steps to reduce, if necessary.

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Key Points

Manual should be detailed, useful, clear and include:• Table of contents

• Job descriptions for each position

• Detailed descriptions of duties/functions of each position

• Personnel policies & procedures related to: (1) recruiting, hiring, orienting; (2) supervising personnel and (3) providing professional development.

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Employee Manual

D. Records:• The institution has an organized record-

keeping system that ensures all records are maintained in an accurate, orderly, and up-to-date manner.

• The record-keeping system facilitates convenient review of those records by appropriate parties.

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D. Records: (continued)• All records are protected from unauthorized

access and undue risk of loss. Employees and students have appropriate access to information contained in their files.

• Records are maintained for a period of time consistent with applicable statutes, regulations, and sound business and educational practices.

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• Establish an effective recordkeeping system (with file checklist) to ensure that records are:1. Accurate and up-to-date2. Organized for the convenient review by appropriate parties3. Accessible to students and appropriate parties

• Establish procedures for backing-up and storing computer files on a regular basis.

• Protect records from unauthorized access.

• Maintain a written record retention policy, consistent with state/federal regulations and sound business practices.

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Key Points

E. Communication:• Management ensures regular and effective

communication among all members of the institution on matters affecting the delivery of quality education and training services in order to enhance operational effectiveness.

• Periodic meetings with employees are conducted with appropriate documentation maintained on significant issues consistent with the size and purpose of the institution.

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• Provide samples of internal communication demonstrating effective & regular communication.

• If the institution is a branch or part of a larger organization – describe how, when, in what form, and under what circumstances communication occurs.

• Describe schedule and focus of faculty, staff, & board meetings and provide documentation of meetings (i.e. agendas, minutes)

• Describe how new and revised policies/procedures are communicated.

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Key Points

F. Professional Relationships: • The institution establishes relationships with

other organizations within the education/training and employer/industry network.

• These relationships are maintained, utilized, and documented to enhance the quality of the education and training services.

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• List professional relationships between the institution and others including:1. Higher education institutions2. Professional and trade

organizations/associations3. Industry contacts4. Advisory boards5. Other organizations/agencies

• Give example of how these relationships have enhanced the institution’s capabilities.

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Key Points

A. Stability:• The institution demonstrates a record of

responsible financial management with resources sufficient both to maintain quality training and educational services and to complete the instruction of all enrolled participants.

• Financial reports provide clear evidence of financial stability and sound fiscal practices.

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Standard III - Finances

• The overall financial stability of the institution will be determined by the Accrediting Commission:– Based upon a review of the institution’s financial

statements by Financial Review Committee (FRC); and– In accordance with ACCET Document 27 – Guidelines

for Filing Financial Reports.• The on-site team will review the institution:

– In the context of ACCET Document 50FR – On-Site Examination Team Financial Review Checklist; and

– Based on an on-site verification of financial practices including the accuracy and availability of information.

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Key Points

B. Financial Procedures:

• The institution assesses its finances at adequate intervals, not less than quarterly.

• Written policies/procedures exist for proper financial controls and supervision of financial management staff.

• Tuition charges are applied fairly and consistently.

• Receipt of tuition payments and other monies is properly recorded and tracked.

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B. Financial Procedures (continued): • Written cancellation and refund policies:

– Are fair and equitable;– Are consistently administered; and– Comply with statutory, regulatory, and

accreditation requirements.• Qualified and capable individuals manage

and evaluate the effectiveness of the financial operations and practices.

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C. Financial Assistance/Scholarship:• Institutions administering public and private

student assistance programs, including scholarships, ensure that these programs are responsibly managed.

• State and federal financial aid programs are properly administered to ensure full compliance under relevant statutes and regulations.

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Describe any public or private resources students utilize to cover the cost of their tuition and how they are administered.

Describe all scholarships, tuition discounts, and tuition waivers offered by or at the institution.

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eASER Questions/Statements

Describe the qualifications of the financial aid administrator.

Does the institution utilize a financial aid processor, servicer, or consultant?

Describe the processes by which the financial aid department monitors satisfactory academic progress (SAP).

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eASER Questions/StatementsApplicable to Title IV Institutions:

• What is the institution’s cohort default rate for each of the past three years? Does the institution maintain a default management plan?

• Provide a copy of the Summary of Findings and Corrective Action Plan from the most recently filed Student Financial Aid (SFA) Compliance Audit.

• The on-site evaluation team will complete ACCET Document 50FA – On-Site Financial Aid Review Checklist/Guidelines, and will review specified SFA audits and program reviews.

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eASER Questions/StatementsApplicable to Title IV Institutions:

A. Educational Goals and Objectives: • The institution’s programs and courses have

appropriate educational goals and objectives.

• The curricular content and learning experiences are preplanned and present a sound, systematic, and sequential educational methodology.

• Sufficient and appropriate knowledge and skill elements are included to ensure adequate preparation for the expected performance outcomes in the specific program or course for which the students enroll.

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Standard IV - Curricula

A. Educational Goals and Objectives (continued):

When required as part of a program, an externship/ internship or other training-related work experience is based on a preplanned outline of the specific knowledge, skills, and experience to be acquired.

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B. Program/Instructional Materials: • Program materials, including syllabi, lesson plans,

instructional guides, and texts demonstrate the appropriate scope, sequence, and depth of each program or course in relation to the stated goals and objectives.

• Instructional materials, including supplementary textbooks, software, learning activities, visual aids, electronic links, and other teaching tools support the goals and objectives.

• • All materials are up to date, readily available, and

facilitate positive learning outcomes.

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C. Performance Measurements: • Performance measurements are written and are

periodically evaluated and updated to ensure instructional effectiveness.

• Measurements are consistently utilized and validated.

• The institution has a sound, written assessment system that contains a set of defined elements, such as grading scale, weighting factors, tests, quizzes, reports, projects, attendance, and participation, that are appropriately related to the performance objectives of the course or program and consistently implemented.

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D. Curriculum Review/Revision: • The institution uses effective and systematic

procedures, including completion and, if applicable, placement results to continuously monitor and improve the curriculum.

• The written procedures include soliciting feedback from relevant constituencies, such as faculty, students, graduates, employers, and advisory/certification boards.

• The procedures focus on a comprehensive review of the curriculum as it relates to the expected learning outcomes.

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E. Certification and Licensing:• When the purpose of instruction is to prepare

students to meet the standards for licensing, certification, registration, or examination requirements, the curriculum includes appropriate preparation and materials to meet the requirements for such credentials.

• The institution records and tracks the pass rates of graduates and uses the results to measure and improve the quality of the educational programs offered.

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• Describe the certification process for each program.

• How do the curriculum/materials prepare students for the exam?

• Prepare a chart of examinees and analysis of data with pass rates on these exams for the last 2 years.

• Describe the process of tracking the success rate – who and how?

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Consider this…

A. Instructional Methods:

• Instructional methods encourage active and motivated responses from participants. Policies and procedures are in place to ensure that the curricula are followed and that there is consistency of application by all instructional staff.

• The instructional methodology is consistent with contemporary training industry standards and appropriate to the educational goals and curricular objectives, facilitates learning, and serves the individual learning needs and objectives of participants.

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Standard V – Instructional Delivery

A. Instructional Methods (continued):• Instructional methods provide

encouragement, challenges, and learning opportunities for all enrolled participants, taking into account different backgrounds, learning abilities and styles, and prior levels of achievement.

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B. Externships/Internships:• Written policies and procedures for the

supervision and evaluation of externships/internships are established and followed by the institution to ensure consistency and effectiveness.

• The institution provides an adequate number of sites to ensure appropriate and timely learning experiences in its externship/internship program.

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• Provide the policy for the administration of the externship/internship program.

• Describe how sites are selected, evaluated, and/or inspected.

• Describe how student performance is monitored and documented (performance evaluations & attendance).

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Consider this…

C. Equipment/Supplies: Adequate, appropriate, and functional

equipment, supplies, and furnishings required to effectively provide the education and training services are readily available for instructor and participant use.

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D. Facilities:• The characteristics of the facility are suitable

and serve to enhance the education and training services offered.

• Instruction is conducted in a safe, accessible, sanitary, and comfortable environment, which is free from distraction.

• The facility meets all applicable local, state, and federal requirements.

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A. Qualifications of Instructional Personnel:

• Instructional personnel possess the appropriate combination of general education, specialized training, experience, and demonstrated teaching and classroom management skills, which qualifies them for their training assignments.

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Standard VI – Instructional Personnel

• What are your requirements for hiring instructional personnel (minimum years of experience, education, certifications, expected teaching style & presentation skills)?

• Are there state licensing requirements relative to instructor qualifications?

• What are the requirements identified in 3.ESL and 3.OAD?

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Consider this…

B. Supervision of Instruction:• Individuals with relevant education and

experience in instructional delivery and management supervise instructional personnel.

• Supervisors of instructional personnel demonstrate good practice in the evaluation and direction of instructors.

• Student, peer, and supervisory feedback are effectively utilized.

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Standard VI – Instructional Personnel

C. Instructor Orientation and Training: • The institution follows a written policy that

demonstrates the effective orientation and training of instructional personnel to ensure a consistent, high level of quality instruction.

• The institution’s policy for the continued professional development of instructional personnel is systematically implemented, monitored, and documented.

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• Describe the new hire orientation process and provide a written policy.

• Does the institution conduct in-service training? How often? How is it documented? Describe the training offered to the faculty for the past year.

• Does the institution pay for professional growth and development activities?

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Consider this…

A. Recruitment:• In informational sources such as the

Catalog, promotional materials, advertising, and the website, representations made by or on behalf of the institution for recruiting purposes must make only justifiable and provable claims regarding the courses, programs, costs, location, instructional personnel, student services, outcomes, and other benefits.

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Standard VII – Admissions and Student Services

A. Recruitment: (continued): The institution does not state or imply that

employment, occupational advancement, and/or certification and licensing are guaranteed.

Any reference to Financial Aid availability must include the disclaimer “for those who qualify”

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• Ensure that the catalog and promotional materials provide a truthful representation of: (1) the institution, (2) its programs, and (3) the employment prospects of graduates.

• Clearly and consistently identify (e.g in the catalog and website) program titles, clock/credit hours and locations consistent with ACCET & State approvals.

• Describe methods of advertising and the institution’s target student population.

• Include written policy on recruitment procedures for inside and outside recruiters.

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Key Points

Catalog Checklist Document 29

Review the Checklist

B. Enrollment:• The institution provides in its enrollment

agreement or contract full disclosure of the rights, obligations, and responsibilities of all parties, including: 1. All costs stated in clear and explicit language, and 2. Cancellation and refund policies that comply with

statutory, regulatory, and accreditation requirements. • The written enrollment agreement or contract is

furnished to and understood by appropriate parties before any payment or obligation is made.

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• Describe your admissions process including student/ institutional obligations.

• Describe what are distributed: catalog, syllabi, brochure, video. How is this done & by whom?

• Describe your entrance test requirements, prerequisites, ATB exam, and the person responsible for these procedures.

• If there is an entrance test, provide a copy and include the rationale for selecting the exam and minimum required score for admittance.

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Key Points

Discuss the percentage of students denied admission into your school.

Vocational schools must complete Document 29.1 -Enrollment Agreement Checklist.

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Key Points

C. Transfer of Credit: A vocational institution has written policies

and procedures that ensure the fair and equitable treatment of students relative to the transfer of credit.

The institution provides timely, accurate, and unambiguous information regarding its institutional transfer policies and practices.

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• All institutions making statements relative to the acceptance of their coursework for credit by another institution have documented evidence to support such statements.

• Establish, disseminate, and implement a written transfer of credit policy, which is consistent with ACCET Document 16-Transfer of Credit Policy.

• Provide evidence that the transfer policy is implemented.

• Describe how and where the institution represents the potential transferability of its own credits or clock hours.

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Key Points

D. Student Services: Student services, consistent with the

mission and learning objectives of the institution, are provided.

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• Describe student services provided by the institution to enhance students’ academic, personal, and/or professional development.

• Provide evidence that services are: (1) utilized by students and (2) meet diverse student needs.

• Describe any career development training offered to students and whether it is incorporated into the program curricula.

• If the institution has developed a student handbook, provide a table of contents.

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Key Points

A. Student Progress:• The institution uses effective means to assess

and record the progress of participants. • Semester credits, quarter credits, clock hours,

and/or continuing education units are used to denote the successful completion of the education and training services provided.

• Assessment results are documented consistently in accordance with institutionally established performance outcomes and are communicated to all participants.

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Standard VIII - Evaluation

A. Student Progress (continued): Participants are informed of their progress

on a regular and timely basis. Institutions required under explicit

regulatory authority to assess student progress utilize sound written policies and procedures that clearly describe the institution’s requirements for satisfactory academic progress.

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Assessment standards are communicated. Results are documented consistently by all

instructors for all programs at each campus. Participants are informed of their progress

in a timely manner. Credit hour schools must report SAP in

credit hours and clock hour schools must report SAP in clock hours.

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Key Points

• How does the school validate that testing and grading procedures are educationally sound and consistently applied?

• Where is the grading policy published? Catalog? Enrollment Agreement? Student Handbook? Syllabi?

• Does your academic progress policy comply with Document 18 - Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy?

• What is your probation policy? How long is your probation period? Are students eligible for financial aid while on probation?

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Consider this …

B. Attendance: Written policies and procedures are

established and followed that ensure that student participation and preparation are consistent with the expected performance outcomes of the course or program.

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• Written policy and procedure consistent with expected educational or occupational outcomes.

• Uniform system for tracking attendance that permits validation and inspection on site.

• Policy consistently applied by faculty and staff.

• Minimum standards of attendance for completion/ graduation.

• Provision for tardies and early departures.

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Key Points

• Is your attendance policy consistent with ACCET Document 35--Policy on Attendance Requirements.

• What is the minimum attendance rate (%) required for graduation?

• What are the ramifications for students who are in violation of the attendance policy?

• How is tardiness monitored and tracked?

• What are the specific deadlines/guidelines for completing make-up work?

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Consider this …

C. Participant Satisfaction:• A written policy and procedure is followed which

provides a means to regularly assess, document, and validate student and graduate satisfaction relative to the quality of education and training services offered.

• Open lines of communication with participants exist and demonstrate responsiveness to student issues.

• A final evaluation of the program upon completion is a specified component of determining participant satisfaction.

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• How does the school measure students’ satisfaction with instructors, program offerings, facilities, and administrative staff?

• Is this information documented and used to improve the school?

• Do results affect the curriculum review process?

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Consider this …

• Establish and implement a written policy to regularly assess participant satisfaction utilizing appropriate questionnaires/survey forms.

• At a minimum, conduct a final evaluation of participant satisfaction at the end of the program.

• Describe how the results of the questionnaires/surveys are analyzed and utilized to improve the institution.

• Establish means to ensure open lines of communication with participants.

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Key Points

Establish and implement a written student grievance policy to include the right for students to address concerns/grievances to ACCET.

Post ACCET Document 49.1 – Notice to Student: ACCET Complaint Procedure.

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Key Points

D. Employer/Sponsor Satisfaction: A written policy and procedure is followed

which provides a means to regularly assess, document, and validate sponsor/employer satisfaction relative to the quality of the education and training services provided.

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Establish and implement a written policy to regularly assess employer/sponsor satisfaction.

Establish methods to follow-up with employers/sponsors (e.g. forms, surveys, e-mails, and/or letters).

Utilize employer/sponsor feedback in the curriculum revision process.

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Key Points

• What is your policy for obtaining feedback from employers/sponsors?

• How often do you collect this data?

• How is employer/sponsor feedback utilized?

• How do you determine whether program graduates obtain the knowledge and skills required by employers?

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Consider this …

135

Standard VIII – EvaluationCompletion and Placement

Standard VIII-E

Standard IStandard

II

Standard III

Standard IVStandard V

Standard VI

Standard VII

E. Completion and Placement: • Written policies and procedures are followed

which provide a means to regularly assess, document, and validate the quality of the education and training services provided relative to completion and placement rates.

• Completion: The number of participants who complete the program in which they enroll is consistent with the benchmarks established by the Accrediting Commission (67%).

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E. Completion and Placement (continued):

• Placement: Institutions offering vocational programs provide job placement assistance to graduates and document the results to enhance the effectiveness of the training services provided.

• The quality of such programs is validated by positive training-related outcomes consistent with the benchmarks established by the Accrediting Commission (70%).

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• Vocational institutions must use Document 28.1 to track completion and placement for all programs.

• While avocational institutions are not required to use Document 28.1, some form of systematic tracking must be used to monitor completion rates.

ACCET Benchmarks: Completion = 67% Placement = 70%

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Consider this…

139

Consider this…

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Types of Placements

• General/Full-time

• Part-time

• Temporary

• Self-employed

• Continuing Employment/Upgrade as a Placement

• Self-assessed Progress

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Minimum Information Required for Placement

1. Name of student

2. Completion date

3. Program name

4. Employment information:a. Employment start dateb. Job title and/or description of placementc. Name of employer, mailing address, telephone

# and email address

d. Employer contact person

5. Documentation of self-employment, part-time employment, temporary employment, continuous employment

Waivers must be documented with student signatures and date. Excessive (maximum allowed = 15% of the entire program) and/or undocumented waivers will be disallowed.

Employment is considered “training-related” if it correlates to the programs’ stated vocational objectives. Non-training-related positions will be disallowed.

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Consider this…

www.accet.org From the home page ACCET Document 28.1 zipped exe file

• 28.1 is a fillable form

• Shows C&P data for each cohort and total year to date

• Calculates totals and percentages for you

• 28.1s are used to track each program and session (day/evening, full/part), for each calendar year

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Document 28.1

Thanks to UEI for hosting and to all of you

for coming!