DRAFT UNTIL APPROVED BY SENATE
MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE SENATE OF SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY HELD
MONDAY. APRIL 2. 1979. 3172 ADMINISTRATION BUILDING, 7:00 P.M.
OPEN SESSION
Present: Pedersen, K. George, Chairman
Arrott, A. S.
Absent: Cotef P. T.
.
Birch, D.
R.
Douglas-Crampton, D.
Blaney,.J.
P.
Doherty, P. M.
Brown, R.
C.
HaUka, P.
P.
Calvert, T. W
Hindle, L.
Carlson, R.
L.
Hobson, R.
F.
Dawson, A.
J.
Keitner, A.
A.
Dobb, T.
C.
Kemp, C. L.
Frydenlund, D.
McMillan, D. B.
Geen,
C. H.
Overholt, M. J.
Gingerich, J. C.
Palmer, P. L.
Harrison,
T.
Pinfield, L. T.
Hoiweg, B. A.
Thomas, L.
E.
Ivany, J. W.
G.
Walkley, J.
Jones, C. H. W
Webster, J. N.
Luetzen,
S.
Wells,
E.
J.
Moffatt, D.
C.
Wyatt, J. D.
Okuda, K.
Reilly, N.
R.
Resnick,
L.
Rieckhoff, K.
E.
Timberlake, A. J.
Tuinman, J. J.
Wagner, P. L.
Weinberg, H.
Weinkam, J. J.
Wheatley, J.
Young, J. 0.
Evans,
H. N.,
Secretary.
Nagel, H. D.
Fike,
J., Recording Secretary
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S.M. 2/4/79
1.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
The Chairman advised that he had received a request from Senator
J. Harrison to add two motions to the agenda. At the request of Senate,
the two motions were read to the assembly. L. Resnick questioned the
propriety of Senate dealing with the second motion
which
related to a
fiscal matter. H. Evans drew attention to section 37 (n) of the
Universities Act which gives Senate the power to make such
recommendations to the Board as may be considered advisable for
promoting the interests of the University or for carrying out the objects
and provisions of the Act. The Chairman commented that, if approved,
the second motion would be only a recommendation from Senate to the
Board as the Board has sol authority on matters related to allocating
budget.
The Secretary stated that the motions must be editorialized in order
to correspond to the format utilized by Senate.
Moved by K. Rieckhoff, seconded by J. Gingerich,
"That the Agenda as amended be approved."
Question was called, and a vote taken.
MOTION CARRIED
2.
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
The Minutes of the Open Session of March 5, 1979 were approved as
circulated.
3.
BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
i) Paper S.79-30 - Reconsideration of Senate paper S.79-23
The Chairman declared his intention, if reconsideration were
approved, to return to the original motion brought forward by the
Senate Committee on Agenda and Rules to avoid the procedural
confusion that would otherwise arise. It was noted that the
motion to reconsider required only a simple majority to be approved.
Moved by B. Holweg, seconded by J. Young,
"That Senate reconsider the amended motion,
'That the membership described in Clauses 1), 2)
and 3) be changed to:
1)
One faculty member (selected by the Dean of
Interdisciplinary Studies).
2)
One student member (selected by the Student
Society).
3)
Vice-President, Academic, or his delegate, to be
Chairman.' "
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S.M. 2/4/79
B. Holweg explained that, based on his discussions with other
Senators,
, it is clear considerable confusion existed about what was
•
being voted on when the vote was taken at the last Senate meeting.
He expressed concern that a committee charged with such a complex
task could experience serious problems related to workload, continuity
of membership and pressures placed on committee members.
Question was called on the motion to reconsider under the
conditions described by the Chairman, and a vote taken.
MOTION TO RECONSIDER
CARRIED
16 in favor
8 opposed
Consideration turned to the original motion contained in Senate
paper S.79-23 and attached to S.79-30. During the discussion it was
agreed that the changes proposed by L. Resnick and accepted at the last
meeting would be incorporated, and these are included belpw.
MOTION:
"That Senate establish an Ad Hoc Senate Committee to
consider student academic discipline and conduct.
Membership:
•
(1) Four faculty members, with one from each Faculty
appointed by the Dean of the Faculty.
(2)
Four student members, with one from each Faculty but
•
including at least one graduate student, selected by
the Student Society.
(3)
Two members of the Senate Committee on Agenda and
Rules appointed by the Chairman of SCAR, one of whom
shall be the Vice-President Academic, or his delegate,
to be Chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee.
(4)
The Registrar, or his designate
.
, as Secretary, (Non-Voting).
All members, excepting the Secretary, shall have voting
privileges.
(1)
To develop procedures for the University for
considering and dealing with matters of student academic
discipline, including appeal procedures, and to
recommend these to Senate for consideration and approval.
(2)
To develop procedures for the University for considering
and dealing with matters of student conduct, including
appeal procedures, and to recommend these to Senate for
consideration and approval.
(3)
Before dissolution of the Committee, to present to
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S.M. 2/4/79
Senate recommendations concerning membership
structure, terms of reference, general procedures,
for any standing or ad hoc Senate Committee or other
bodies which may be necessary to carry out recommendations
approved by Senate under (1) and (2) above.
Moved by B. Holweg, seconded by K. Rieckhoff,
"That the membership described in Clauses 1), 2)
and 3) be changed to:
1)
Two faculty members appointed by the President.
2)
The Vice-Pre,jdent Academic, or his designate,
as Chairman.
3)
Two students chosen by the Student Society."
In response to a question from the Chairman, the mover of the
motion confirmed the Registrar, or his designate, as Secretary (non-voting)
would continue to be included in the membership.
Question was called on the amendment, and a vote taken,
AMENDMENT CARRIED
Question was called on the main motion as amended, including
membership and terms of reference, and a vote taken,
MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED
4. REPORT OF CHAIRMAN
1) AUCE 2 Strike Situation
The Chairman reported minimal movement resulting from separate
meetings between the mediator and the union and the mediator and the
University which had taken place during the past week.
ii) Board Actions Relating to Academic Consequences on Students
Commenting on a matter referred to him by the Board of Governors
regarding concerns expressed by the Student Society about potential
academic penalties students might experience because of the
current labor situation, C. Pedersen stated there are very serious
concerns about how students complete the present semester and the
extent to which the University is able to handle the current
situation with as little disruption as possible. He added that
difficulties are being experienced in some areas and all efforts
possible are being made to minimize the difficulties experienced by
students.
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S.M. 2/4/79
SD. Birch gave information about some of the problems being encountered
and the actions taken. He emphasized the difficulty of clearly
distinquishing between consequences and penalties stating that it is
impossible to avoid there being some consequences including some
•
academic consequences to students resulting from the AUCE strike. Efforts
• .
have been directed toward interpretation and application of
university academic policies in ways which will minimize academic
penalties that might otherwise be imposed on student. There is clearly no
desire to apply penalties but some consequences cannot be avoided.
N. Reilly provided more detailed information on actions taken in the
attempt to minimize the negative effects on students. He informed Senate
of the actions taken through the Academic Advice Centre paying tribute to
the outstanding ef forts of M. Cairns, Director of the Centre. It was
obvious a major problem was related to the lack of complete and accurate
information being available to students, particularly in the early stages,
and one measure taken to assist students was the mailing of an
information package through the Registrar's Office. The package also
contained a letter co-authored by the President and the President of the
Student Society, J. Young. N. Reilly expressed his opinion that
current Senate policies have sufficient inherent flexibility that,. with
judicious interpretation, most of the difficulties experienced by students
could be minimized. He noted that various deadlines, e.g. drop dates for
courses, would not be rigidly adhered to. He also gave detailed
information on the options available to students when a specified course
.
could not continue to be offered by the University, including provision for
some courses for a drop with refund of tuition fee, credit/no entry
grading or standard grading. As the end of term approaches, he felt
additional problems may be experienced but efforts will' be made to solve
them expeditiously.
J. Young, in his capacity of President of the Student Society,
expressed appreciation to Dr. Pedersen, the Academic Vice-President's
Office and the Registrar for their efforts to see that students are not
unnecessarily disadvantaged by the current labor situation. In response,
Dr. Pedersen requested that J. Young and his colleagues continue to
bring to the administration's attention niatters'that are of concern to
students with. respect to their academic programs.
iii) Kelowna School of Resource Management
The Chairman recounted some of the events of a meeting held on
March 5, 1979 attended by himself, members of the Board of Governors and
three members of the Universities Council; Dr. Gibson, Chairman
Jack Hetherington and David Freeman. The meeting was described as a
frank exchange of information and opinions but it was clear Council was.
not prepared to reconsider its final decision. Dr. Pedersen spoke of the
dysfunctional consequences of Council's action including the possible
negative effects on relations between the University and the rest of
the Province in future endeavors. He stated that it was his intent to
.
write to the Universities Council stating the concerns he wished placed
on the record.
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S.M. 2/4/79
K. Rieckhoff added that in his opinion he felt the Chairman of
the Universities Council realized the planning processes of the Council
had been deficient permitting such an event to occur.
iv) Research Park
The Chairman provided information on the possibility of developing
a research park on land owned by Simon Fraser University. He advised
that extensive discussions are taking place with Discovery Parks Inc., a
subsiduary of the B. C. Development Corpn. and other agencies. In
Addition to the potential increased opportunities for faculty and
students, the University may realize other benefits such as completion
of the ring road and some expansion of other physical plant facilities at
no direct cost to the University.
L. Resnick expressed reservations about any firm wishing to come to
campus considering the history of labor relations. C. Pedersen agreed
that this is .a matter deserving of attention.
v)
Budget
Preliminary information on the basis of limited data was provided
by G. Pedersen on the 1979/80 operating budget allocation to
universities with indication that some increase might be forthcoming.
vi)
S.79-31 Limitation of Enrolment - PDP
Moved by D. Birch, seconded by K. Rieckhoff,
"That Senate approve the action approved by the Board to limit.
PDP enrollment, as reflected in Senate paper S.79-31.
'That effective September 1, 1979 the Board establish for
the Professional Development Program in the Faculty of
Education an enrollment limit of 500 students per year
exclusive of those students in programs or modules
separately budgeted and funded through such sources as
Interior Programs.'
Responding to questions raised by J. Harrison, Dean Ivany
explained that enrollment in PDP has always been limited but the
question was what is a suitable limit to maintain the quality of
intake of students to the program which in turn would maintain
the prestige of the program. J. .Gingerich asked why a limit on
enrollment was necessary when entrance requirements could be the
tool to control the quantity and quality of entrants. G. Ivany
responded that the situation was complex because of the long term
planning and commitments required to acquire Faculty Associates.
D. Birch stated that attention must also be paid to the
needs of the constituencies served by the Faculty where there is
a need for increased graduate programs, particularily professionally
oriented or field oriented graduate programs, and to serve those
needs more it is a matter of redirecting resources rather than
increasing them.
[1
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S.M. 2/4/79
T. Arrott expressed opinion that the admissions criteria should
determine the intake of students n the number of Faculty Associates
hired. He also stated his opinion that a long term demand has existed,
•
and will continue to exist, for more science teachers to be graduated
from the program.
Question was called, and a vote taken,
MOTION CARRIED
5. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
i)
Senate Nominating Committee
S.79-32 - Senate Election. Senate Committee on Continuing Studies
Only one nomination was received for a Lay senator to replace
L. Latham on the Senate Committee on Continuing Studies for
term of office from date of election to September 30, 1979.
Declared elected by acclamation: W. J. A. Rowe'.
ii)
Senate Committee on Undergraduate Studies
a) S.79-33 Economics and Commerce - Prerequisite and Title
Changes - For Information
Acting in accordance with the powers delegated to it by Senate
(S78-10) and in accordance with the reporting procedures 'approved by Senate
(S78-159) the Senate Committee on Undergraduate Studies approved at its
meeting on February 27, 1979, changes in the prerequisites and title for
certain 'Economics and Commerce courses as outlined below and is hereby
providing a summary to Senate for information.
(a)
Prerequisite change, ECON 100-3, Introduction to Economics
(b)
Prerequisite change, ECON 301-5, Intermediate Microeconomic
Theory
(c)
Prerequisite change, COMM 307-3, Managerial Economics
(d)
Change in title, calendar description and prerequisite,
COMM 3-37-3, Management Information Systems I.
The changes indicated in items (a), (b) and (c) are prerequisite
changes in a technical sense only. 'They involve restrictions on the
circumstances under which students may obtain credit for these courses
(in particular, since ECON 301, ECON 302, and COMM 307 are similar
courses) and such statements traditionally appear in the calendar under
the heading of "prerequisites".
Full documen tat i on i
ava i I ab I
in thy Rcgi s tra i-'
Of ii
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S.M. 2/4/79
b) S.79-34 Geography - Prerequisite Changes - For Information
Acting in accordance with the powers delegated to it by Senate
(S78-10) and in accordance with the reporting procedures approved by
Senate (S78-159) the Senate Committee on Undergraduate Studies approved
at its meeting on February 27, 1979, changes in the prerequisites and
titles for certain Geography courses as outlined below and is hereby
providing a summary to Senate for information.
(a)
Prerequisite change, GEOG 262-3, Canada
(b)
Prerequisite change, GEOG 263-3, Selected Regions.
The prerequisite statements for both of these courses used to
include the following:
"at least 15 credit hours including two of GEOG 111, 121, or 141."
The requirement for two of the courses GEOG 111, 121 or 141 was
introduced five years ago.
The experience of the instructors in GEOG 262 and 263 over, this
period has convinced them that this particular requirement is
unnecessary and the Department is now recommending that the
prerequisite return to the previous one, requiring only 15 credit hours.
A further factor was the Department's interest in having GEOG 262 (Canada)
available to the maximum number of students possible.
Full documentation is available in the Registrar's Office.
6.
REPORTS OF FACULTIES
i) Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies
S.79-35 - Special Topics
The Chairman noted that the outlines of Special Topics courses
offer in 79-1 semester in the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies was
provided for information.
7.
OTHER BUSINESS
'i) S.79-22 - Notice of Motion - K. Rieckhoff
Moved by K. Rieckhoff, seconded by L. Resnick,
"That for the purposes of considering the granting of graduate
degrees at the Master's level Senate be provided with lists of
candidates. The lists presented to Senate, from the Senate
Committee on Graduate Studies, will contain in addition to the
candidate's name and degree, the title of the thesis, extended
essay, or project, and the name of the senior supervisor."
Note: Appropriate reference documentation of the type
now distributed to Senate will be made available by
the Registrar for view by any Senator in the Senate
chambers should any Senator wish to see it.
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S. M. 2/4/79
K. Rieckhoff reviewed the history of processing undergraduate
degrees which at first included full documentation but when appropriate
control procedures were in place and when the number of graduating students
became significant Senate had approved the current system of providing
lists of graduating students with documentation available to Senators.
He considered the situation concerning graduating students at the
Master's level has reached the point relieving Senate of the need to
monitor the details of each degree. He emphasized that the documentation
would continue to be available to Senators who wished to check it but that
full distribution would be discontinued.
J. Young spoke in opposition to the motion stating his belief that
Senate should continue to closely monitor the documentation to ensure
quality is maintained. In addition, he felt Senators who had not
checked the documentation would be at a disadvantage if a question was
•
raised by a Senator who had done so, which may cause some harm to the
graduating student through delay in processing. Also speaking in opposition
•
to the motion,-T. Arrott felt that it was essential for Senate to continue
•checking the documentation as a final check to ensure the work is done
well and excellence is maintained. He drew attention to the difference
between Undergraduate and Graduate degree requirements noting that at
•
the Undergraduate level there is no requirement that a final project
or thesis be placed in the Library for the reference of others.
T. Calvert felt the various committees involved in reviewing and
approving a Master's degree must ensure quality is maintained.
Amendment was moved by C. Jones, seconded by T. Calvert,
"That'in the reference documentation to be provided
there be included the dates of oral examinations,
dates when essays or projects are submitted for
evaluation, the dates when approval for recommending
the degree are given by the Senate Graduate Studies,
Committee."
Question was called on the 'amendment, and a vote taken.
AMENDMENT CARRIED
Question was called on the main motion as
,
amended, and a
vote taken.
MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED
0
S-.M. 2/4/79
ii). Motions from J. Harrison -. (now identified as Appendix I)
As indicated at the time of approval of the agenda, the
motions proposed in Appendix I are adjusted to conform to the
normal Senate practice, separating rationale and motion. During
discussion, the Chairman indicated the motions ;would be considered
in separate parts (now identified as Motion I -(1), Motion I (2),
Motion II (1), Motion II (2)).
Moved by J. Harrison, seconded by A. Timberlake,
MOTION I (1) "That Senate recognizes the current labor-management dispute
has had a severe impact on the quality of education at SFU;
that it recognizes the desirability of the maintenance of
recognized academic standards; that it expresses its concern
over the disruption of the educational process; and that it
requests the President to relay this concern to the parties
involved in the dispute and to express the view of Senate
that these factors should be considered in the bargaining
process."
Rationale: It is the express responsibility of Senate to deal
with matters pertaining to the academic quality
of education at the University.
The current labor dispute at,SFU has severely
disrupted a number of courses offered by this
institution, reduced the number and quality of
academic services available on campus normally
expected to maintain academic standards,
endangered the morale of both faculty and students,
and has the potential to seriously disrupt the
grading process should the dispute be prolonged..
J. Harrison spoke to his motion noting the damage to the
academic environment; some attitudes of hostility; the difficulty
of maintenance of equipment with resultant time loss and frustrations;
the shorter library hours and difficulties with inter-library loans and
recall processes; the cut-backs in computer facilities; difficulties' for
students because of day-care closure; the problems with the lack of
bus service and impact on study time; problems at the picket lines and
difficulties for those who would not or cannot cross; the dangers of
misinformation; potential problems with grading; the cancellations of
some classes or components; the impact on prerequisite requirements;
the potential of some grades being withheld and resultant problems.
J. Young noted precedent for such a motion at Senate,
referring to 1976.
L. Resnick suggested Senate would approve such a motion almost
as a motherhood issue, and A. Arrott concurred.
Question was called, and a vote taken.
.
MOTION '
CARRIED
S.M. 2/4/79
S
Moved by J. Harrison, seconded by A. Timberlake,
MOTION 1 (2)
"That Senate request the President to inform the Minister.
of Education of the position taken by this body."
A number of Senators expressed concern if this motion were to
pass. D. Birch referred to a former unfortunate circumstance in which
a like action had been taken.
Question was called, and a vote taken.
/
MOTION FAILED.
A change in wording from Appendix I was proposed by J.
Harrison, with reference t6 .fees and monies not spent.
Moved-by J. Harrison, seconded by J. Young,
MOTION II (1)
"That Senate recommend to the Board of Governors that. a
portion of the money saved due to the strike be returned
to students in the form of the establishment of an
endowment fund to be used for non-repayable grants."
•
MOTION II (2),
which would follow would read,
S
"The terms of reference of said fund to be established
in consultation with the Simon Fraser Student Society."
Rationale: Student fees constitute 10% of the University's
budget; students are hard-hit academically and
denied services they would normally receive;
it is the responsibility of Senate to see to
matters of financial aid.
H. Weinberg suggested the possibility of fee rebates or
bursaries dependent on need.
J. Harrison referred to discussions
-
S
with the Financial Aid Office and the problems of first undertaking a
loan before abursary, and the desire.for consulation o
.
n the terms of
reference.
S
K. Rieckhoff indicated he would abstain from discussion and
vote on the matter-as it is a direct recommendation to the Board.
T. Calvert expressed concern on the precedent pertaining to
55
use of funds. The Secretary suggested the motions take the form of a
request to the Board to give consideration, rather than a direct
recommendation on the action.
is
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S.M. 2/4/79
Moved by J. Wheatley, seconded by B. Hoiweg,
"That motion IT (1) and the proposed motion IT (2) be
referred to the Senate Committee on University Budget."
It was observed that SCIJB is advisory to the President but
that information could come back to Senate.
Question was called on the motion to refer, and a vote taken.
MOTION TO REFER CARRIED
8.
NOTICES OF MOTION
There were no notices of motion.
9.
INFORMATION
The assembly recessed briefly at 9:16 p.m. prior to
moving into closed session.
10
H. M. Evans
Secretary