A. Overview of the process

The C3PO process is designed to be collaborative, efficient, and focused. It typically involves 2-3 meetings of 3-4 hours each, led by trained faculty facilitators and program designers. The process is structured to move from broad visioning to specific program mapping and evaluation planning. Here's an overview of the key stages:

1. Kickoff Meeting (15-20 minutes, at least 2 weeks prior to main sessions)
2. C3PO Main Meetings (2-3 sessions of 3-4 hours each)
3. Program Evaluation Planning
4. Next Steps and Implementation Planning

B. Kickoff Meeting

The kickoff meeting sets the stage for successful C3PO sessions. It should occur at least two weeks before the main meetings to allow time for preparation.

1. Setting goals
   • Discuss the program's current state and areas for improvement
   • Identify specific objectives for the C3PO process
   • Align on expectations for the main sessions
2. Preparing necessary data
   • Determine what data will be needed to inform discussions (e.g., current program structure, industry feedback, student performance data)
   • Assign responsibilities for data collection and preparation
3. Key questions to consider
   • What do we want to see from our graduates?
   • How can we demonstrate our program's value to the industry?
   • How do our program goals align with Institutional Learning Outcomes (ILOs)?

C. C3PO Main Meetings

These are the core collaborative sessions where the bulk of the program engineering work takes place.

1. Creating collaboration norms
   • Establish ground rules for respectful and productive discussions
   • Set up collaborative tools and processes
2. Developing program vision
   • Craft a compelling vision statement that captures the essence and aspirations of the program
3. Crafting program outcomes
   • Define clear, measurable Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) that align with the vision
4. Mapping Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) to courses
   • Identify how each course contributes to program outcomes
   • Discuss key assessments in each course that demonstrate achievement of PLOs
5. Sequencing courses within the program
   • Determine the optimal order of courses to support student learning and achievement of PLOs

D. Program Evaluation Planning

In this stage, the team develops a strategy for ongoing program assessment.

• Define success metrics for the program
• Establish methods and timelines for data collection and analysis
• Plan for regular review and adjustment of the program based on evaluation results

E. Next Steps and Implementation

The final stage involves planning for the execution of the newly engineered program.

• Identify courses that will require significant changes
• Assess the level of work needed for each course
• Develop an implementation timeline
• Plan for communication with all stakeholders about the program changes

Throughout each stage of the C3PO process, the focus remains on collaborative decision-making, alignment with institutional goals, and preparation of students for future success. The following sections of this handbook will provide more detailed guidance on facilitating each of these stages effectively.