Extension Services Learning Circles (LCs) assist academic computing departments with the development and implementation of strategic initiatives to increase gender diversity in their undergraduate programs in a collaborative, communal environment.
Learning Circles consist of:
- three departments of computing
- an Extension Services Consultant (ESC)
- an Extension Services staff member
LCs meet approximately 12 times in a 12-month period via online meetings to discuss topics aligned with the Undergraduate Systemic Change Model and to share ideas about how to utilize evidence-based strategies and resources. Consultants also periodically meet individually with each department’s team of change leaders to create a customized strategic recruitment and retention plan, discuss challenges, and track progress. Visit the ESC Biography Webpage to learn about each of the current ESCs.
Become a Client
More than 100 computing departments have worked with Extension Services to develop strategic plans for change. The current Learning Circle period is set for one year. Let us know if you would like to be considered for a future funding cohort. Email the ES Program at es@ncwit.org for more information.
For meeting the Learning Circle Client Expectations, participating departments will receive:
- individualized consultation with an ESC
- a community of similarly engaged peers
- a small gift fund to support strategic recruitment and retention initiatives
- access to and guidance for analyzing your enrollment, retention, and graduation data
- travel funds for two team representatives to attend the annual NCWIT Summit, including the Extension Services Pre-Summit meeting
- eligibility to apply for the NCWIT Extension Services Transformation (NEXT) Awards (contingent upon continued award funding)
