The development of the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) at North Carolina A&T State University was open, inclusive and democratic, leading to the selection of the topic, Critical Thinking: Learning to Make Informed Decisions. Coordination of the process was the charge of the QEP Committee, which convened initially in fall 2007 and was chaired by a faculty member. Generally, the committee met bi-monthly, but more frequently, if needed.

Since 2007, the committee membership has totaled 21 and represented the entire University community, including faculty from the seven schools and colleges, the library, Graduate Studies, University Studies—the general education program, staff, undergraduate and graduate students, the Student Government Association, and alumni.

Over the three-year QEP development period, more than 2,200 respondents/participants provided input to the committee and included faculty, staff, administrators, students, alumni, the board of trustees, and employers. The QEP Committee visited departments, academic units and student groups to obtain input. Throughout the process, the chairs, faculty, and students made suggestions for changes, improvements, and indicated agreement on proposed details. Presentations to the A&T Board of Trustees, Chancellor’s Cabinet, Deans Council, and department Chairs Forum informed these groups about the selection process and provided progress reports. The Chancellor’s Cabinet provided guidance and advised on the process.

Various drafts of the QEP have been posted on the A&T website for review and discussion.  Summaries of the major components of the QEP such as the implementation of the plan, selection of participating departments, and student learning outcomes were shared and input solicited as the plan was being developed.