Assignment: Education Models

What comes to mind first when you think of an institution of higher education? Perhaps a quadrangle with ivy-covered walls? Or a sprawling campus with glass-and-steel buildings? Or a web-based institution serving learners in many locations? In the United States, and increasingly internationally, higher education is adopting many different forms and models. In addition to the traditional "brick-and-mortar classroom," there are online-delivery models and blended programs that combine traditional and online delivery in one program or even one course. Further models include competency-based learning, mastery learning, and project-based learning, to name only a few.

For this Assignment, research institutions to identify two that have adopted different educational models. Examine the vision and mission statements for each institution and consider how the model, or models, at that institution support the mission. These models do not have to be adopted across the institution. For example, one may be adopted within one program or school, or it may be adopted at the undergraduate but not at the graduate level.

To prepare:

Consider the relevance of specific education models in carrying forward the mission of each of the two institutions you have identified. Also think about how a specific model can help an institution maintain a competitive advantage and adhere to relevant accreditation standards.

To complete:

Write a 2- to 3-page paper that identifies two institutions and the distinct model each has adopted. Explain in which program or programs the model is used. Also provide the following regarding each institution:

• A description of how the model provides the institution with a competitive advantage
• A description of how the model aligns with the institution's mission
• URL links to the information about the institution, its mission, and its model

Your paper should be written in a scholarly tone with APA formatting.