U of T has introduced a new timeline for academic planning. Previously, the entire university—all faculties, divisions, and campuses—would simultaneously go through a planning process every five years. Under the new scheme, the process will happen when a division changes leadership.
For example, if the Faculty of Arts and Science appoints a new dean, within two years of that appointment the dean must come up with a plan that “sets out the division’s vision, priorities, and path for implementation over the medium term of five to seven years,” according to a release from Cheryl Misak, vice-president and provost.
Each plan must define its goals, come up with a strategy to implement them, contingency plans in case they fail, and means of measuring success.
“[Though] the general priorities are sketched out to help advise departments, it’s really up to the departments to convene their own planning exercise,” said Meric Gertler, dean of the arts and science faculty.
The provost’s office also maintains that the “divisional plans ought to keep in close contact with the Towards 2030 synthesis document.”
Gertler said Towards 2030’s goals will be greatly incorporated into Arts and Science’s new academic plan. He cited smaller classes and more opportunities for engagement through internships and placements within community groups. “Instructors and students could apply to a grant to take courses overseas or out of town, to take them to an actual site that they’re studying,” said Gertler. “That kind of pilot project becoming regularized is a result of this.”
While some of the goals in Towards 2030 are related to student recruitment, enrolment, and experience, there is also a heavy focus on increasing faculty members’ research contributions.
Despite enthusiasm from the administration, the approach faces challenges. Departments planning on an increasingly individual basis could result in a failure to co-ordinate, and inconsistency across faculties and campuses.
“There are risks, but they are not insurmountable,” Gertler said.
“The provost has made it clear that she expects all divisions to ensure that they reach out to their relevant partners on campus and across campuses in a meaningful way.”
