Overview
This article provides an overview of the latest updates to the Program Review and Curriculum Map tools in Planning and Self-Study. These updates introduce greater flexibility in template creation and improved organization for curriculum mapping.
Building and Managing Program Review Templates
The Program Review module now offers a more adaptable workflow. Administrators can design review templates that align with specific institutional requirements by mixing custom content with pre-built sections rather than using rigid, fixed structures.
Flexible Template Building
Administrators gain full control over the review structure through a new "start from scratch" workflow.
- New templates begin with an empty structure.
- Administrators can browse the Watermark Default Template and select specific categories or sections to import.
- Users can create unique categories and sections to group requirements by department.
Smart Connections
The system supports evidence collection by connecting live data directly to template sections through Smart Connections.
- Automated Data Pulls: Administrators can link sections to Smart Connections to pull real-time information.
- Data Types: These connections automatically surface information, including:
- Mission Statements
- Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)
- Curriculum Maps
- Action Items
Template Management and Customization
New editing tools allow for intuitive management of templates during the creation process.
- Dynamic Editing: Administrators can rename, reorganize, or remove categories and sections.
- Section Unlinking: Modifying the title of a pre-built section transitions it to a "custom section," preserving the original Watermark version for future use.
- Action Menu: A streamlined menu on each category and section provides quick access to edit and delete functions.
Reordering Enhancements for Curriculum Maps
The Curriculum Map tool has changed from a static list to a dynamic interface. Program Leads can now reorganize map elements to reflect the student journey. By customizing the sequence of courses and outcomes, users ensure maps align with pedagogical goals.
Dynamic Curriculum Map Organization
Program Leads can customize the visual sequence of elements to match a program's progression.
- Drag-and-Drop Interface: Users can change the sequence of outcomes, courses, and learning activities by dragging them into order.
- Program Review Alignment: Changes to the map order automatically update in Program Review narratives.
- Export Consistency: The custom order is preserved in all PDF exports and shared versions.
- Snapshot Management: New snapshots capture the updated organization while existing snapshots maintain historical records.
Navigation and Data Security
The system includes safeguards to ensure a smooth editing process.
- Save Alerts: A notification appears if a user attempts to leave the reordering screen without saving changes, preventing data loss.