Minutes of the Educational Policy Committee March 9, 2005

Approved 3-30-05

Educational Policy Committee

March 9, 2005 (Meeting #9)

Present:

Josh Breyfogle, Gloria Brush, Chris Carroll, Richard Davis, Kathryn Fuller, Steve Hedman, Rod Lievano, Mary Ann Marchel, Kate Maurer, Mary Jean Menzel, Duane Millslagle, Howard Mooers, Elizabeth Nelson , Jerry Pepper, Claudia Rock, Randy Skalberg, Timothy Tangen

Excused: Lesley Choi, Vince Magnuson, Bill Payne

The minutes of the 2-9-05 meeting were approved with no changes.

5xxx courses follow-up

An ad-hoc committee was appointed to review the guidelines regarding this issue. The definition of a 4xxx course is that it be used primarily for undergraduate students, while 5xxx courses be used primarily for graduate students. Cross-list courses (to have the same course listed as both a 4xxx and 5xxx level class simultaneously, with graduate students having additional assignments, expectations, etc.) is an option that may help alleviate this problem.  The ad-hoc committee recommended that departments self-monitor their use of 4x & 5x level course designations and asked that administration bring this request forward to the deans.

Intro to College Learning

Intro to College Learning (SSP 1000) was approved by EPC in 1996. This course does not fall under the realm of any one collegiate unit, and has never been assessed.  One of the stated benefits of this course was that it would help improve student retention. With this in mind, the Admissions, Retention and Graduation subcommittee has been asked to assess this course, with a requested completion date of December 05. The committee was asked to review all course syllabi, aggregate student data, and pedagogical objectives. In addition, focus groups or surveys may be conducted.

Vice Chair Nominations

EPC members eligible for Vice Chair are:  Gloria Brush, Richard Davis, Bill Fleischman, Rod Lievano, Mary Ann Marchel, and Elizabeth Nelson. Members were encouraged to forward names for nomination to either Bill Payne or Jerry Pepper. A vote will be taken on this issue at our next meeting.

Meeting adjourned 3:40 p.m.