Summary
Sector InvolvementWhile there was no hard data to support sector involvement as a major factor toward ensuring student success, the abundance of relevant qualitative anecdotal information obtained from telephone and on-site interviews support such a claim. The sharing of ideas at provincial and national conferences and the camaraderie that some operators appear to share, transcends the competitive nature that is often inherent in business relationships. Each of the colleges surveyed were members of the National Association of Career Colleges (NACC). College operators and staff overwhelmingly indicated that provincial and national Association involvement was helpful in gaining new ideas and approaches to ensuring student success. In addition, five of the eleven colleges visited during the research for this project were participants in a quality assurance or accreditation program.
Innovative Ideas
Sector InvolvementHere are a couple of sector involvement strategies and initiatives that your private career college might adopt:
- If your college is not already a member of your provincial Association and of the NACC, make plans to join immediately. But don’t just become a member. Attend workshops and seminars - and offer to serve. You will receive more than you give!
- Enroll in an accreditation, quality assurance or quality improvement program. If you are in British Columbia, you should contact the British Columbia Private Career Training Institutions Agency. New Brunswick colleges should contact the New Brunswick Association of Career Colleges. Nationally, the Canadian Education and Training Accreditations Commission is undergoing a complete revision that is scheduled for completion by late 2008. Provincial Associations and NACC can provide contact information.