Establishing a mission for an education institution is a crucial step in defining its purpose, goals, and values. When developing a mission statement, consider the following questions and the types of evidence that can support and validate your mission according to the first standard of accreditation for education providers:
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- The institution shall clearly define a comprehensive, and published mission specific to the institution and appropriate for the education provided. The mission addresses teaching and learning and, where applicable, Social Responsibility and public service.
Questions to Consider
- What constitutes the published “mission” of the institution? Is it a single statement or a broader collection of statements?
- Where is the mission statement published? Is the language of the mission consistent across publications?
- How is the mission statement appropriate to the institution educational services?
- How does the mission address teaching and learning and, if appropriate, social responsibility and/or public service?
- How does the mission statement reflect the institutional values, educational programs and levels of degrees offered by the institution?
Evidence Required
- A copy of the mission statement.
- Evidence it is published.
- Website display of the mission statement.
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- The mission shall be developed through appropriate collaborative participation by all who facilitate or are otherwise responsible for institutional development and improvement.
Questions to Consider:
- What is the composition of the committee/ Board that developed the mission statement?
- Are the members participated in the preparation of the mission statement representing the different interests of the institution?
Evidence Required
- Attendance, and minutes of meetings showing that different interests contributed to the creation of the mission statement.