Dr. Holly Gruhlke Vice President | Dickinson State University
Dr. Holly Gruhlke Vice President | Dickinson State University
Dickinson State University began the 2025–2026 academic year with a focus on improving instructional quality. All full-time contracted faculty at the university completed Quality Matters (QM) training over two days in August.
The training involved nearly 60 faculty members, who spent between six and eight hours learning from a certified Quality Matters instructor. The sessions addressed course quality measurement, accessibility improvements, varied teaching methods, and ways to engage students across different course formats.
This professional development is part of DSU’s ongoing strategic plan to enhance teaching and learning outcomes for students. The university aims to make measurable progress in student success by adopting recognized best practices.
Dr. Holly Gruhlke, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, joined the faculty during the training. “As faculty, we share a responsibility to continually improve how we serve our students,” said Dr. Gruhlke. “Participating in this training together set a powerful tone for the year. It ensures we are not only advancing academic quality but also staying true to our mission of preparing students for success in a dynamic world.”
President Scott Molander highlighted the value of the Quality Matters framework in tracking instructional progress. “Quality Matters provides a nationally recognized framework for measuring and enhancing instruction,” said President Molander. “This training gives us valuable data points and benchmarks that allow us to make measurable improvements in teaching and learning, ensuring we deliver the highest quality educational experience possible.”
Dickinson State University plans additional professional development events for faculty later in the academic year. A committee made up of faculty members, instructional designers, and academic administrators will be formed to monitor and further improve instructional practices.
More information about Dickinson State University’s courses and programs can be found at https://dickinsonstate.edu/academics.
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