Research Advisory Group
The needs for establishing the Research Advisory Group (RAG) are as follows:
- Educational Master Plan recommendation(s) – College System 4
Using the college's collaborative processes, develop a research agenda that addresses student learning.
- Educational Master Plan recommendation(s) – Community Responsiveness 3
Include the assessment of local business/industry needs in the annual research agenda.
- Integrated Planning Manual Revised 2010, Annual Research Agenda
It is essential for the college to establish an annual research agenda that is focused on student learning and supports the various components of integrated planning.
- ACCJC Recommendation 4
In order to meet standards, the team recommends that the college strengthen the role of research through a broad institutional dialogue and critical analysis of research data, especially in light of the changing student demographics. Institutional efforts should focus on providing information based on statistical data and communicating it widely to all appropriate constituencies in order to improve institutional effectiveness.
Purpose of RAG
Research is the centerpiece of the College of Marin Integrated Planning Model. As depicted in the graphic in this manual, data drives the key components of the process: the mission, the Educational Master Plan, the strategic plans, program reviews, the outcome assessments, and progress on both the college goals as well as the planning process itself.
Given this central role, it is essential for the college to establish an annual research agenda that is focused on student learning and supports the various components of integrated planning.
Tasks and Responsibilities
- Develop research agenda that addresses student learning by working with Program Review Committee and Student Learning Outcome Committee.
- Monitor the progress of the research agenda.
- Establish standardized definitions of key terms such as retention and success.
- Monitor the Institutional Effectiveness System. (Short-term goal is to monitor comprehensive student success results and effective data communication.)
- Present annual progress report to College Council.
- Monitor external changes/environmental scan (i.e., state economy, demographics, ...)--every 3 years.
- Monitor college level data (i.e., internal factors, demographics, student success college level, ...)
- Make recommendations to PRAC.
Office of Planning, Research, and Institutional Effectiveness (PRIE) Web Site
Technical Contact: Barbara David, Administrative Assistant, 415.485.9570
Content Responsible: Director of PRIE (position currently vacant)