University of Phoenix Launches Research Center

 

The University of Phoenix is establishing a National Research Center (NRC) focused on developing new initiatives for adult education.

Members of the new center's Advisory Panel include names well-known in educational circles, such as Patrick Callan, founding president of the National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education, and Dr. David Breneman, University Professor and Newton and Rita Meyers Professor in Economics of Education, and director of the BA/MPP program in Public Policy at the University of Virginia.

According to the university's press release, the research center will study and monitor developments in the field of higher education, particularly those that relate to innovative teaching and learning methods, educational technology, and issues of student achievement and retention, accountability, affordability, access and inclusion.

More than 70% of undergraduates today are classied as "nontraditional" -- meaning they either delayed enrollment, work full-time, are financially independent, have dependents of their own, or lack high school diplomas. University of Phoenix aims to increase its outreach to these students new technologies and methods.

“Given the rapid growth of the ‘nontraditional’ student population and the critical role that institutions such as University of Phoenix play in serving these students, it is essential that we know more than we currently do about what teaching processes and methodologies work best in this sector of the educational market,” said Dr. Breneman. “I am delighted that University of Phoenix has decided to invest in research in this area, and look forward to the resulting enhancements in teaching and learning.”

In a departure for a university traditionally associated with developing practical skills, the NRC will also work to promote research between faculty and students.