IUPUI among 16 campuses honored for innovation in undergrad education

By Jayne Spencer

The recognition culminated from the association’s Greater Expectations Initiative, which identified colleges and universities nationally that have developed stimulating educational experiences for students. Dubbed “Leadership Institutions” for their role as models of best practice, the honored campuses will become part of the Greater Expectations Consortium on Quality Education.

The selected schools, which include the universities of Michigan and Nebraska, Colgate, Duke and State University of New York-Stony Brook, were characterized by extensive innovations in curriculum, pedagogy and organizational structure. Each campus also supported a campus culture that nurtured undergraduate growth, both within and outside the classroom. Many have linked liberal arts with pre-professional study, promoted off-campus work in community projects or internships and emphasized critical thinking about complex problems, effective communication and the ability to contribute to a diverse society as important outcomes of a lasting undergraduate education.

Beginning in fall 1998, University College opened its doors to serve as the academic home for IUPUI’s entering students. The college aids in fostering high expectations, connecting students to their academic environments, and providing assessment and feedback—all key ingredients to undergraduate success.

http://www.universitycollege.iupui.edu/

http://www.aacu-edu.org/