The University of Iowa College of Education

Education at Iowa

Fall 2005

Table of Contents

EDUCATIONAL POLICY & LEADERSHIP STUDIES

New Center Studies Undergraduate Education
The University of Iowa College of Education has launched a new center dedicated to the study of undergraduate education in America. It will examine issues ranging from how academics and social experiences affect students to the methods schools use to improve students’ chances for success in the classroom and beyond graduation.

Pascarella and Whitt direct new University center researching undergraduate education
Pascarella and Whitt direct new University center researching undergraduate education

The Center for Research on Undergraduate Education (CRUE) is co-directed by two faculty members internationally renowned for their research of undergraduate education: Professor Ernest T. Pascarella, the Mary Louise Petersen Professor of Higher Education, and Professor Elizabeth J. Whitt, coordinator of Graduate Programs in Student Affairs Administration.

“CRUE’s long-term vision is national and international recognition as the premier interdisciplinary center conducting, promoting, and disseminating high-quality research on the impact of college and the conditions for student success,” Pascarella and Whitt said.

Already, the center is involved in several research projects, including a study—commissioned by the UI Provost’s Office—of the experiences and outcomes of undergraduate education at The University of Iowa.

“There really is no other center nationally that does the kind of work we do,” Pascarella said, “and we’re going to focus on what we do best.”

Given Pascarella’s background in quantitative research, and Whitt’s in qualitative research, CRUE will bring a methodologically balanced approach to the study of undergraduate education.

The pair said the creation of the center coincides with rising interest in improving the quality of undergraduate education across the country.

“Baccalaureate attainment rates vary widely. Nearly 20 percent of four-year colleges and universities graduate only one-third of their first-time, full-time, degree-seeking, students within six years—a rate most see as unacceptable,” they said.

CRUE will allow The University of Iowa to systematically pursue these research agendas. –by Stephen Pradarelli
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Rzonca Named Associate Provost and Dean

The University appointed Higher Education Associate Professor Chet Rzonca associate provost and dean of the Division of Continuing Education, a position he has filled on an interim basis since summer, 2000.

Chef Rzonca advances continuing education with technology.
Chef Rzonca advances continuing education with technology.

“Chet has been incredibly active and productive as interim dean,” Provost Michael Hogan said. “He stepped up and took a leading role in developing the new strategic plan for distance learning at the three Regent universities for instance, and he’s helped the College of Nursing and School of Social Work to improve and grow their off-campus and evening programs. I’m confident that the Division of Continuing Education will continue to prosper under his leadership.”

Rzonca said easier and better student access to quality courses and programs offered in cooperation with the academic colleges has been a major goal under his interim leadership, including refining registration procedures, expanding use of technology in delivery and evaluation of courses, and supporting faculty in developing student learning experiences.

He calls his work “an almost perfect opportunity to work with faculty and staff across campus, the other Regent universities, and other educational institutions, particularly community colleges to extend University expertise to the citizens of Iowa.

“Our colleges have unique quality programs, engaged faculty, and supportive leaders willing to try new technology and personal approaches to reach both campus and distant learners in creative ways,” he continued.

Before being tapped as interim dean of Continuing Education, Rzonca served the university in various capacities as a faculty member, program coordinator, and department chair of Educational Policy and Leadership Studies. –by Mary Geraghty Kenyon

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