Appalachian established the Periodic Comprehensive Review (PCR) process in 2014 whereby all units on campus complete an in-depth review to thoroughly examine the unit's mission, goals, outcomes, resources, activities, strengths, and areas for improvement.
The PCR is a periodically recurring process through which units evaluate and monitor the effectiveness of programs and services to facilitate decision-making and quality enhancement. All academic departments and administrative and educational support units complete a PCR at least once every 7 years. Some units may complete a review more frequently if they are a UNC Center and Institute (which are required to submit reports every 5 years) or due to specialized accreditation.
The PCR process is divided into three parts:
- Self-Study: The unit writes a narrative and provides documentation in response to five standards regarding mission, demand for services, quality, healthy and productive work environment, and resources.
- External Review: The unit, in consultation with the head of their division, invites individuals external to the unit to review the unit and provide a candid evaluation based on each of the standards, indicating strengths and potential areas of concern.
- Executive Summary and Continuous Improvement Plan: The unit summarizes findings from the self-study and external review for the division head. In addition, the unit creates a continuous improvement plan where they identify specific outcomes to strive for over the next 5-7 years.
Periodic Comprehensive Review Standards and Instructions
Periodic Comprehensive Review Instructions for Administrative and Educational Support Units - (PDF) This document provides PCR instructions for administrative and educational support units, including the five standards used as a unit's self-study. The standards are revised periodically based on feedback from the campus. Please feel free to contact IRAP to offer any feedback.