Beyond One-Off Efforts: A Systems Approach to Driving Sustainable Change in Higher Education

Introduction

If you’ve ever engaged in any sort of change effort, you probably know that strategy and planning are needed to make these efforts effective. But did you know that taking a “systems approach” substantially enhances your ability to make and institutionalize truly transformative change?

In this course, you’ll learn about NCWIT’s mission and approach to using evidence-based practices to systemically support organizational change efforts—particularly those focused on enhancing departmental student support, success, and engagement as well as broadening participation in computing (BPC)—within the realm of higher education. You’ll also gain access to a variety of resources and tips to support you and your department in your journey.

Prerequisite Knowledge:  None

Learning Objectives: By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Describe NCWIT’s mission and systems-based approach to organizational change efforts within higher education.
2. Explain the components and purpose of NCWIT’s Undergraduate System Model and how it supports systemic change.
3. Identify key readiness factors and resources needed to effectively initiate and sustain change efforts.
4. Recognize the importance of a collaborative departmental culture in implementing lasting change.
5. Access and utilize NCWIT tools and evidence-based resources to support change efforts at the department or institutional level.