External reviews enhance what has already been determined in the self-assessment process by using professional, neutral reviewers to learn about a functional area, then draw on their expertise to assist with its strategic planning. Taken together, the internal and external reviews document continuous improvement within the context of national standards.
External Review Team Membership
The external review team will include at least one team leader from outside UF, one faculty member or academic administrator, a staff person outside the reviewed department, and a student (undergraduate or graduate). The functional area under review will be asked to recommend individuals to serve as external reviewers. External reviewers will be interviewed by the SAAR Director and ultimately selected by the reporting AVP and the Vice President for Student Affairs.
The team leader, and any additional paid external consultants, are expected to apply a wealth of experience, regarding both the functional area under review, as well as conducting program reviews using CAS standards, and demonstrate experience in writing reports of this nature. One external reviewer should also hold an AVP or higher position in order to provide administrative perspective. Resumes and bios will be collected to include in the External Review Team (ERT) portfolio and subsequent report.
SAAR assumes the responsibility of overseeing and supporting the external review process. SAAR will work with the external reviewers and the functional areas to prepare for the review process. Schedules for both external reviewers and the site visit will be managed by SAAR.
External reviewers will be invited to the campus for an on-site review. In preparation for the campus visit the external reviewers are provided with the following information at least two weeks before the site visit:
- Self-assessment report provided by the functional area being reviewed
- Supporting documents for self-assessment
A secure website will be set up for external reviewers to access self-assessment documents. External reviewers review the report and support documents before on-site review.
Timeline: The external review will typically start in the Spring following the self-assessment in the Fall. External reviewers will typically be brought to campus in March – May.
Travel Arrangements: SAAR will make travel arrangements (i.e., flight, lodging, local transportation for external reviewers).
The Campus Visit: The External Review Team will be on site for three days. The team members will be provided rooms for meetings and interviews. SAAR will work with the functional areas to discuss the campus visit arrangements and itinerary.