Change, evolution and adaptation of an university EAP: Process and outcome at the University of Saskatchewan.

Abstract

The University of Saskatchewan EAP was instituted in 1989, however, as occurs in many EAPs that are functioning well, little additional evaluative attention was paid to the program other than the production of annual reports for the following decade and a half. However, organizational changes within the University applied additional pressure upon the EAP which led to the question of whether the original model still best served the needs of the University, its faculty and staff. A Review Panel consisting of two external consultants and a senior University administrator was struck to examine the program as the University entered its second century of providing post-secondary education. The panels’ program evaluation consisted of an examination of 29 documents, an analysis of 12 Western Canadian universities, facilitation of seven focus groups (n = 48), interviewing of 19 individuals unable to attend focus group sessions, review of 13 written submissions and consultation with members of the EAP committee and University administration. The process resulted in a series of recommendations that if implemented would significantly alter the way occupational assistanceis provided at the University. This then raises the question of how often and extensively should EAPs that are meeting the goals that they were created to address be examined in the current environment of constantly evolving and changing organization structures and needs?