Program Stewardship
Transitioning from the Alignment Table to Program Stewardship
At BYU, refining programs to better support student learning is paramount, and the evolution of our alignment table reflects this commitment. Initially designed to meet accreditation requirements, the alignment table served its purpose but has some limitations. For example, it fails to track ongoing progress, and it often prioritizes compliance by emphasizing procedural responses over meaningful program improvement. The new approach to program review is intended to provide an avenue for programs to focus on what matters to the success of students.
What:
The new program review process is called “Program Stewardship.” It is a more holistic approach to reflecting on program effectiveness that not only tracks progress over time but also encourages authentic reflection and proactive changes. Ultimately, using this process, programs will be better able to support students' learning journeys and drive institutional progress through a culture of evidence-based improvement.
Why:
Program Stewardship is critical because it promotes a continuous cycle of reflection that fosters genuine improvement, based on student learning, the learning environment, program improvement, and professional development. Program Stewardship is not a check-the-box activity; it supports the program’s efforts to systematically evaluate evidence of program achievement and drive program and institutional progress. In the process, accreditation requirements are satisfied.
Who:
Program Stewardship is the responsibility of all faculty and leadership within a program. The Program Assessment Coordinator organizes and oversees the evaluation process, in conjunction with the department chair and dean. Faculty, or a representative body of faculty, play a vital role in providing insights and feedback to ensure that the review process drives meaningful improvements in student learning outcomes and educational quality.
When:
Technically, the academic year ends on August 31. Thus, the current state of Program Stewardship is archived on that date. However, programs are encouraged to engage in the process at a time that is most conducive to a meaningful conversation about the needs and refinements of their program.
How:
A detailed guide is provided at the link below: