What is the Quality Enhancement Plan?

The Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) is a 5-year initiative focused on improving student learning outcomes and success at Guilford Technical Community College. Our QEP, titled "Here to Succeed," aims to increase student engagement and attendance in the first 12 credit hours of instruction.

 

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Improving Student Success in the first 12 credit hours!

Quality Enhancement Plan for GTCC

Why is GTCC implementing this QEP?

Research shows that students who successfully earn 12 credits in two years have significantly higher overall success rates. As a majority student of color institution, GTCC is committed to raising achievement for all students and reducing equity gaps.

Our QEP arose from four years of research on improving early student success and aligns with our Guided Pathways 2.0 initiative. It directly supports GTCC's commitment to student achievement as outlined in our Institutional Effectiveness Framework.

QEP Goals and Strategies

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Implement a college-wide attendance policy

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Increase student engagement in the classroom

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Provide professional development for faculty and staff

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Establish a financial aid distribution system supporting completion

Key Research Findings

  • Course success rates have improved overall but gaps persist between demographic groups
  • Early alerts often relate to attendance and academic concerns
  • Students who attempt 12-plus credits and complete English and math in the first year are more likely to succeed
  • Many students report challenges with attendance and assignment completion in the first weeks of class

Download an in-depth read on the GTCC QEP Focus [PDF].

Download an overview presentation with stats on the GTCC QEP [PDF].

 

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How We'll Support Implementation

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  • Pilot attendance tracking in select programs
  • Offer faculty training on engagement strategies and attendance reporting
  • Revise new student orientation to emphasize attendance and participation
  • Enhance Canvas usage for consistent grading and feedback
  • Provide campus-wide education on student academic progress

The QEP represents GTCC's commitment to student success. Faculty, staff, and students all play a crucial role in making "Here to Succeed" a reality. Together, we can create a more engaging learning environment and improve outcomes for all GTCC students.

GTCC QEP Development Committee Members

Kara Baldwin, Director of Grant-Sponsored Programs  Justin Lyons, Director, Marketing and Communications 
Jeremy Bennett, QEP Development Committee Chair, Associate VP of Instruction  Amanda Melniczek, Faculty/Co-Chair, Center for Teaching and Learning 
Kristen Corbell, Director of Institutional Research Kirby Moore, Associate VP, Onboarding and Admissions 
Rich Depolt, Department Chair, Accounting, Business, & Supply Chain Management Ann Proudfit, VP of Student Services
Kristin Dotson, Director, Institutional Support and Special Projects  Brad Spielman, Director, Center for Academic Engagement  
LaTia Hairston, Faculty/Program Director, Cosmetology  Ronnie Smith, IT Systems Manager 
William “Keith” Karriker, Registrar  Nick Yale, Faculty/Interim Director, Aviation Programs 
Lisa Koretoff, Director, Financial Aid 

 

QEP Development Committee Meeting Minutes

 

QEP Subcommittee Minutes