Empirical Research
Department Chairs’ Perception of Faculty Participation in Accreditation Activities: A Follow-up Survey
Reviewed By Cathryn A. Peterson, PT, EdD
Volume 4 - Issue 1
Feb 13, 2007 - 4:08:11 PM

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore physical therapy department chairs’ perceptions of faculty participation in activities leading to accreditation, and the effect on accreditation outcome.  METHODS: Of 74 department chairs meeting the inclusion criteria, 52 responded to the follow-up survey.  Data collected from this sample were analyzed against data from a previous study of physical therapy faculty and chairpersons that explored the relationships among accreditation outcome, management style, and faculty participation in accreditation activities, among others. RESULTS: Chairpersons’ perceptions of faculty participation in accreditation activities is significantly greater than the faculty’s self-perceptions of the same (paired t-test: t_{critical(.001,49)}=3.265 t_observed=3.5730).  Multiple linear regression of accreditation outcome onto management style, chair perception of faculty participation, support of the accreditation process, and commitment to implement plans yielded no statistically significant associations.  There was no significant relationship between management style and a difference between faculty and chairperson’s perceptions of faculty participation in accreditation activities .  CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study indicate that chairpersons perceive faculty participation in accreditation activities at a level greater than faculty self perceptions of the same.  This study is of primary significance to chairpersons and faculty in allied health programs, academic administrators, and specialized accrediting agencies.