GEAC was created in 2004 by Provost Larry Robinson in response to the new “Principles of Accreditation” adopted by SACS (Southern Association of Colleges & Schools). SACS is now The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSOCS). In 2020 the General Education Steering Committee (GESC) was created as part of the restructuring of GEAC.
GEAC's Charges
Establishing and streamlining a systematic process for the assessment of the general education system.
Identifying college-level knowledge and competencies for the general education program that are linked to FAMU’s mission and goals and Florida State accountability systems.
Developing an assessment plan for general education program.
Monitoring the implementation of the planned general education assessment activities.
Organizational Structure
GEAC is a subcommittee of the General Education Steering Commitee (GESC) operating under the auspices of the Office of University Assessment and reporting to the Institutional Level Assessment Committee (ILAC).
Composition, Leadership and Membership
Membership in the GEAC is drawn from:
•The office of University Assessment
•Members of ILAC (Dean, ADESU, IP)
•Members of the GESC
Leadership of GEAC consists of two co-chairs:
•GESC Chair
•Counterpart
What GEAC does for FAMU
Assesses four competencies within GENED courses:
Communication
Critical Thinking
Quantitative Reasoning
Social/Ethical Reasoning
Collects data and prepares documentation for SACSCOC accreditation:
Core Requirement 2.7.3 In each undergraduate degree program, the institution requires the successful completion of a general education component at the collegiate level that (1) is a substantial component of each undergraduate degree, (2) ensures breadth of knowledge, and (3) is based on a coherent rationale. For degree completion in associate programs, the component constitutes a minimum of 15 semester hours or the equivalent; for baccalaureate programs, a minimum of 30 semester hours or the equivalent. These credit hours are to be drawn from and include at least one course from each of the following areas: humanities/fine arts; social/behavioral sciences; and natural science/mathematics. The courses do not narrowly focus on those skills, techniques, and procedures specific to a particular occupation or profession. If an institution uses a unit other than semester credit hours, it provides an explanation for the equivalency. The institution also provides a justification if it allows for fewer than the required number of semester credit hours or its equivalent unit of general education courses. (General education)
Comprehensive Standard 3.5.1 The institution identifies college-level general education competencies and the extent to which students have attained them.