The AAFCS Task Force for Program Advancement (TFPA), an ad hoc committee of the AAFCS Board, is requesting participation from higher education units in an important survey that aims to assess and strengthen Family & Consumer Sciences (FCS) units within colleges and universities. As you know, the sustainability and impact of our FCS units are more critical than ever, given the evolving educational landscape and societal challenges we face today. Please share this request with your colleagues and administrators in FCS units in higher education institutions.
The linked paper survey has been carefully designed to help facilitate robust discussions with FCS faculty. It’s vital that this survey is completed in collaboration with faculty, as their insights are crucial in identifying both the strengths and areas for growth within higher education units. The discussions that emerge from this process will be invaluable in shaping the future of FCS programs and ensuring their continued relevance and success. Higher education units are asked to use this link to submit their responses to each of the questions based on discussions with their FCS faculty.
Here are a few key points to consider:
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Collaborative Completion: Please ensure that you work through the survey with your faculty. This collaborative approach will provide a comprehensive view of your FCS unit, which is essential for capturing the full scope of its strengths and challenges.
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Discussion and Reflection: The attached survey includes a range of questions that should spark meaningful conversations. We encourage you to reflect on how your FCS unit aligns with your college’s strategic goals and how it contributes to the broader institutional mission.
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Sharing Outcomes: After completing the survey and discussing the results with your faculty, we strongly recommend sharing your findings with your college’s dean. This will help secure the necessary support and resources to address any identified needs and further enhance your unit’s impact.
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Confidentiality: Please note that all survey responses will be kept confidential and analyzed collectively. Your insights will contribute to a larger effort to support and strengthen FCS units across institutions in the U.S.
TFPA estimates that this survey will take approximately 45-60 minutes to complete, given the depth of discussion we hope it will inspire. Your participation is not just appreciated—it is essential to the future of Family & Consumer Sciences education. Please work towards completing this survey by November 1st, 2024.