There are many factors to take into consideration when choosing a candidate. This module provided great insight into the best methods for determining who is the best fit for our organization. 

I had never heard about Robert's Rule of Order before this module, so learning of this resource has been invaluable. I also believe that the information provided will help our organisation develop a standard for maintaining effective professional development. 

I learned the importance of a quorum in conducting business. 

Reply to Melissa Parker's post:

Hi Melissa, 

The idea of having an odd number of individuals is a great suggestion. 

Choosing a governing or advisory board which is representative of both the student population and the surrounding community is vital for creating an organization which is impactful and sustainable. Too often in our field we see schools open up only to shut down shortly due to conflicts of interest, non- compliance with rules and regulations, or mistakes made due to ignorance on the part of the committees which are created to ensure success. The process of selecting board members is going to require sound judgment to ensure we select individuals who are capable of carrying out their defined roles & responsibilities.… >>>

I never realized the important differences between an advisory board and a governing board. Additionally, the task of choosing the right members requires careful evaluation and selection of the most competent individuals for their defined role. I am also surprised to learn that advisory boards are limited in their legal responsibilities, while governing boards oversee the legal, finacial and mission goals related to an institution. This module has been both eye opening and thought provoking.

Keeping up with the requirements for regulatory boards, as well as providing proof of program relevancy has been very challenging for our organization. This is why it is so important to have the most knowledgeable individuals on your advisory commitee. We might be tempted to take shortcuts when we are assembling our commitee members, but this should not be the case. These individuals will often be the voice of sound reasoning when faced with issues related to program relevance and subsequent modifications and or program changes.

Data analysis is almost always tied to the concept of Evidence Based Practice. Because our organization is tied to the healthcare industry we rely very heavily on our research, analysis of data and subsequent interpretation. I have now learned that it is possible to analyze different programs together to see how they fit and or accomplish the goals identified by our stakeholders and constituents. 

Forming a commitee is an undertaking which requires you to have good networking skills. Also, you need your stakeholders to be representative of the community, and this itself is no easy task. The community in which our organization is located is very diverse. This tells me that we are going to have to determine who is best able to represent these individuals. 

It is easy for us to just jump into developing a new program, especially when we feel that we understand the steps it will take. However, without the right research we will be unprepared for any issues which will arise. This module has taught me the importance of conducting a feasibility study, as well as the importance of forming a commitee to help plan and prepare for new program implementation.