S.97-46
.
24 April 1997
REPORT OF THE SENATE COMMITTEE ON UNIVERSITY TEACHING
?
AND LEARNING (SCUTL)
During its third year in operation SCUTL met 6 times over the period 1 May 1996-1 May
1997 (cf. 11 times in the preceding year). The committee has not had a very productive year,
partly because its Chair and Secretary had heavy demands on their time due to their
involvement in the Graduate Survey Committee. In addition, Committee members have
expressed doubt/uncertainties, which have translated into inaction, about the mandate and
parameters of SCUlL.
The Committee has been involved in the following during the reporting period:
(1)
Course evaluations
It will be recalled that SCUTL administered a pilot version of a course evaluation
form in July
1995.
During the summer of 1996, Vice-President Gagan provided funds for
the committee to hire a student (Jody Reilhan) to complete the preliminary analysis begun
by SCUTL members. His report was submitted in late fall, 1996. However, more analyses
are needed, and another version of the form designed. SCUTL members have expressed
major reservations about a Senate Committee, especially one with no funds, continuing
. further with such an endeavour.
Given the controversial nature of course evaluations, SCUTL is in the process of
planning a university-wide forum for the discussion of course evaluations, likely to be held
in May 1997.
(2)
Teaching Awards
In keeping with our Senate-defined mandate, SCUTL is involved with Excellence in
Teaching awards. Communication with the TSSU continues regarding teaching award for
Teaching Assistants and Sessional Instructors. In particular, we are working with TSSU to
establish a set of criteria for teaching awards for TSSU members.
As noted above, SCUTL is uncertain of its mandate, given that most anything that goes on
in the university could be part of it. The Committee has set up a meeting with the Vice-
President, Academic (scheduled for 6 May) to discuss issues and seek counsel.
Submitted by:
Ellen M. Ge
• Chair,
