The guidelines outlining the role and functions of an Academic Council are as follows:
Policy Development and Oversight
- Formulate Academic Policies: Develop and review policies related to academic programs, assessment standards, and student conduct.
- Approve Academic Programs: Evaluate and approve new programs, courses, and degrees. Ensure they align with institutional goals and accreditation requirements.
- Review and Revise Policies: Regularly assess and update existing policies to reflect changes in educational standards, regulations, and institutional needs.
Curriculum Development
- Approve Curriculum Changes: Review and approve changes to curriculum, course content, and teaching methodologies.
- Encourage Innovation: Support and encourage innovation in teaching and learning methods.
Academic Integrity and Ethics
- Promote Integrity: Develop and enforce policies related to academic integrity and ethical behavior.
- Handle Academic Misconduct: Oversee procedures for addressing allegations of academic misconduct.
Quality Assurance
- Ensure Academic Standards: Monitor and uphold the quality of education and academic standards within the institution.
- Accreditation Compliance: Ensure that programs and courses meet the standards set by accrediting bodies and regulatory agencies.
- Evaluate Performance: Oversee mechanisms for evaluating the performance of academic programs, faculty, and students.
Communication and Transparency
- Ensure Transparency: Maintain transparency in decision-making processes and communicate effectively with all stakeholders.
- Report Findings: Provide regular reports on academic affairs and decisions to the institution’s broader community.
Strategic Planning
- Contribute to Strategic Goals: Help shape the institution’s academic vision and strategic goals.
- Align Academic Programs: Ensure that academic programs and initiatives align with the institution’s overall mission and strategic plan.
Conflict Resolution
- Address Disputes: Handle academic disputes and conflicts between faculty, students, and other stakeholders.
Governance and Representation
- Represent Stakeholders: Act as a representative body for faculty, students, and other academic stakeholders.
- Promote Inclusivity: Ensure diverse perspectives are considered in decision-making processes.
Support and Development
- Faculty Development: Support faculty development initiatives and professional growth opportunities.
- Student Support: Ensure academic policies support student success and address student needs effectively.
Research and Innovation:
- Promote Research: Encourage research activities and innovation within the college, supporting faculty and students in their research endeavors.
- Integrate Findings: Ensure that research findings are integrated into the curriculum and academic practices where applicable.