Here’s a quick summary of the issues discussed at Monday’s faculty senate meeting:
April Cunningham presented information on the Comet Affordable Learning Materials (CALM) program, designed to support instructors wishing to use low- or zero-cost open educational resources in their classes. Information can be found at http://www2.palomar.edu/pages/calm. She is also looking to start a Textbook Affordability Taskforce.
The CTEE division is reorganizing into two main areas: Trade and Industry, and Design and Manufacturing Technologies.
Palomar was granted a substantial endowment in the will of a deceased faculty member, with the stipulation that the endowment be used to fund a faculty award tied to academic rigor. There was discussion as to whether this should be used to create an entirely new and separate award, or to enhance some of the existing faculty awards. The senate discussed whether to give the job of making this decision to a separate task force or to the existing Distinguished Faculty Award committee.
Basic Skills presented a proposal that furniture designed around active learning (such as the new furniture being used in the NS building) become the college standard, and that new spaces be designed and constructed around spaces with active tearning, DRC, and technology needs in mind.
Academic Technology reported that more than 180 courses have already migrated to Canvas as of the beginning of this semester.
The PFF and Senate are co-hosting a marty on Thursday, February 2, at 370 Mulberry Drive #E, in San Marcos. It was clarified that, while this does take place on Groundhog Day, no actual rodents will be present, though Shannon did bring up the possibility of a giant groundhog costume.