I'm not sure if the word learning should be included in this principle. I would think excellence in learning would be more of a reflection of some students' G.P.A.'s rather than a core principle. Since the teachers don't have a lot of control over who is sitting in front of them, as long as they continually strive for excellence in their teaching methods, the entire institution benefits.
Quality is the ultimate measure that sets one institution apart from another-- and above all, provides the standard for which all other core principles are engendered. This extends not only to the quality of the curriculum itself, but the quality of the personnel, our support services, the facility, provided amenities, and community outreach; each contributes to the overall experience our students receive as a result of their patronage.
Quality is a great goal. I agree the wording could be tweaked. Is our goal to be recognized for excellence, or to provide excellent teaching and learning opportunities?
One of the best indicators of teaching quality is a good student portfolio. Traditionally, it a must not only in such fields as art and design. Currently, most employers in various areas of technology require a portfolio that demonstrates significant knowledge and, perhaps more importantly, an ability to complete a substantial project. We should be putting a lot of emphasis on portfolio development inside and outside the classroom. Ultimately, excellence in teaching and learning will be measured by how successful our students are on the job market.
For a community college like MCC, learning is much broader then the consideration of student GPA. At MCC, learning should encompass our ability to recognize when change is needed and successfully manage change by shifting and adapting to new opportunities. The same is true of the responsibility we have to develop and support our community.
To the point above, I think our ability to change and adapt might fall better under the "Innovation" category. Responsibility towards the community might fall best under the "Accountability" category.
Learning should definitely be included as a key part of this category. Although student ability and preparedness is in many ways outside of our control, current definitions of effectiveness focus on the outcome (student learning) rather than the process (good teaching).
"current definitions of effectiveness focus on the outcome (student learning) rather than the process (good teaching)" - this may be true, but does that mean it has to be OUR measure of quality? Certainly I would hope that all of our instructors strive to have students learn, but isn't that through quality teaching (which is what MCC can evaluate and control)?
I'm not sure if the word learning should be included in this principle. I would think excellence in learning would be more of a reflection of some students' G.P.A.'s rather than a core principle. Since the teachers don't have a lot of control over who is sitting in front of them, as long as they continually strive for excellence in their teaching methods, the entire institution benefits.
ReplyDeleteQuality is the ultimate measure that sets one institution apart from another-- and above all, provides the standard for which all other core principles are engendered. This extends not only to the quality of the curriculum itself, but the quality of the personnel, our support services, the facility, provided amenities, and community outreach; each contributes to the overall experience our students receive as a result of their patronage.
ReplyDeleteQuality is a great goal. I agree the wording could be tweaked. Is our goal to be recognized for excellence, or to provide excellent teaching and learning opportunities?
ReplyDeleteOne of the best indicators of teaching quality is a good student portfolio. Traditionally, it a must not only in such fields as art and design. Currently, most employers in various areas of technology require a portfolio that demonstrates significant knowledge and, perhaps more importantly, an ability to complete a substantial project. We should be putting a lot of emphasis on portfolio development inside and outside the classroom. Ultimately, excellence in teaching and learning will be measured by how successful our students are on the job market.
ReplyDeleteFor a community college like MCC, learning is much broader then the consideration of student GPA. At MCC, learning should encompass our ability to recognize when change is needed and successfully manage change by shifting and adapting to new opportunities. The same is true of the responsibility we have to develop and support our community.
ReplyDeleteTo the point above, I think our ability to change and adapt might fall better under the "Innovation" category. Responsibility towards the community might fall best under the "Accountability" category.
ReplyDeleteLearning should definitely be included as a key part of this category. Although student ability and preparedness is in many ways outside of our control, current definitions of effectiveness focus on the outcome (student learning) rather than the process (good teaching).
ReplyDelete"current definitions of effectiveness focus on the outcome (student learning) rather than the process (good teaching)" - this may be true, but does that mean it has to be OUR measure of quality? Certainly I would hope that all of our instructors strive to have students learn, but isn't that through quality teaching (which is what MCC can evaluate and control)?
ReplyDeleteI like Susan Sieber's point. It seems to hit home.
ReplyDeleteI agree that "to be recognized" may not be what we're striving for.
ReplyDeleteWhat about "To achieve excellence in teaching and learning and in the services we provide."
Good point, ann--how about this to boil it all into one statement:
ReplyDelete"To anticipate district needs and collaborate with key stakeholders to pioneer creative and effective solutions."