Political Science Department Adopts Development Measures to Enhance Academic Quality

As part of its commitment to improving the quality of education and strengthening academic and administrative performance, the Department of Political Science at the College of Arts and Humanities, Islamic University of Minnesota – Main Center, approved a package of development decisions during a regular meeting chaired by Dr. Khaled Atiyah, with participation from faculty members.

At the opening of the meeting, the Head of Department emphasized the importance of adhering to circulars and decisions issued by the department and the college, and working diligently to implement them to ensure smooth and stable academic operations. He underscored the necessity of uploading course syllabi to the academic portal within designated timelines, enabling faculty members to carry out their teaching and administrative duties without obstacles.

The meeting also discussed the nature of course materials circulated via WhatsApp groups, clarifying that such content serves as reference material only, while allowing the inclusion of multiple academic textbooks to enrich subject content. In the same context, usage regulations for multimedia in lectures were endorsed, prohibiting YouTube clips or external programs to ensure compliance with regulations and intellectual property laws.

Regarding assignment management, the department approved a structured framework setting two assignments per semester, worth ten marks each. Assignments are to be posted on the academic portal and the course WhatsApp group, with a 15-day submission period. Students were urged to monitor their grades early, while late submissions would be handled according to university procedures, with the possibility of allocating delayed grades at the instructor’s discretion.

Participants emphasized the importance of respectful student engagement and addressing negative behaviors through educational approaches that enhance classroom discipline. The meeting also stressed early preparation for exams, approving the scheduling of midterm exams before Week 5 and final exams before Week 10, with submissions uploaded upon request according to approved procedures.

To support instructional quality, the department highlighted the need to continue enhancing modern teaching methods to foster interaction and enrich students’ learning experience. A new evaluation mechanism for faculty performance was approved, including issuing quarterly certificates of appreciation, honoring the top ten distinguished instructors with shields, and granting certificates of excellence to the remaining high achievers. Evaluation criteria included professionalism, punctuality, discipline, active participation in departmental activities, and consistent engagement with circulars and official communication channels.

In a new academic initiative reflecting its commitment to fostering intellectual output, the department announced plans to launch a scientific and cultural journal dedicated to publishing articles and studies in political science, thought, and culture, contributing to academic research and scholarly development.

The meeting concluded with reaffirming the department’s commitment to supporting faculty and students, and its ongoing efforts to strengthen the educational system at the college and university in support of its academic mission and goals.