Revitalizing Higher Education: Focusing on Academic Excellence Through Enhanced Accreditation and Faculty Governance

The Big Issues in American Higher Education

American universities are becoming increasingly politicized, and it’s a challenge that everyone seems to notice, regardless of political beliefs. The organizations responsible for overseeing academic quality, known as accreditors, have been slow to act. For the past thirty years, they’ve focused more on regulatory concerns than on addressing this issue head-on, leaving many universities feeling uncertain about their role.

The Importance of Faculty Governance

One key way to tackle politicization is by strengthening faculty governance. Faculty members are supposed to shape academic life, but many aren’t prepared for this responsibility. Graduate programs train professors to be experts in their fields but often fall short in teaching them how to ensure academic quality. This gap is evident in trends like grade inflation and a decline in general education programs.

To improve faculty governance, accreditors should set clear standards and guidelines that hold faculty accountable for academic excellence. Drawing inspiration from the U.S. Constitution’s checks and balances, accreditors can help create a more effective system that still respects the autonomy of faculty members.

A Shift in Accreditation’s Focus

Historically, the mission of accreditors has shifted. In the 1990s, they gravitated toward a consumer-protection model that prioritized operational efficiency over academic excellence. This move, while intended to safeguard students, ultimately led to a lack of focus on the quality of education. As student debt rose and defaults became common, accreditors were criticized for failing to protect students and uphold standards.

Recent changes introduced by the U.S. Department of Education have created a more competitive environment for accreditors, sparking new opportunities for reform. With these changes, there’s a chance to refocus on what matters: academic excellence.

Setting Higher Standards for Teaching

Accreditors must re-emphasize the importance of good teaching practices while holding faculty accountable. Implementing best practices is crucial to cultivating a dynamic learning environment. For example, the book What the Best College Teachers Do highlights effective teaching methods based on interviews with successful educators. Incorporating these practices into accreditation standards can lead to improved outcomes.

Additionally, the curriculum should reflect a commitment to liberal education, inviting students to explore multiple perspectives. This can help create a more robust academic environment and counteract the politicization of education.

Accreditors in the New Landscape

The 2020 changes have opened the door for more accrediting organizations, allowing institutions to select those that align with their values. This new marketplace can lead to greater accountability and a potential focus on academic quality. Schools that seek accreditors dedicated to maintaining high standards may distance themselves from politically charged agendas.

A Balanced Approach Moving Forward

The system of oversight involving the Department of Education, state governments, and accreditors needs a reset. Each entity plays a vital role: the Department of Education oversees federal financial aid, state governments regulate public institutions, and accreditors ensure academic quality. For the system to function well, there must be respect for each party’s role.

Ultimately, restoring a focus on academic excellence can help depoliticize education. If accreditors prioritize academic standards, they can help elevate the quality of higher education in America. The recent changes in the accreditation landscape may offer a way forward, one that promotes an educational environment in which excellent teaching and a commitment to liberal education are at the forefront.

With these reforms in mind, the future of American higher education might just become bright again.

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