[VPAAEtal] FACULTY DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP "Core Clusters" Proposal January 26, 2009

[Academic Affairs]

Core Clusters Proposal Workshop

January 26, 2009

            12:00 noon - 2:00pm

Sam Rayburn Student Center

Traditions Room 212

 

 

1.       What are "Core Clusters"?  They are University Studies courses
grouped together around a central topic or topics.  Each cluster is a
grouping of three courses representing one part of the University's core
curriculum required of all students as a part of all degree plans.
These clusters involve extensive cooperation, coordination, and
collaboration between three professors to create a total educational
experience for students.  Students taking part in a cluster will receive
the benefits of multiple perspectives on the same topic.  They will be
challenged by rigorous academic work, and they will be engaged by course
activities, both academic and social.

2.       Why Core Clusters? Research has shown that interdisciplinary
work excites and engages students and that it strengthens critical
thinking skills.  In addition to these benefits the clusters will offer
opportunities for new friendships, self-discovery, and a more memorable
academic experience.

3.       Who can propose core clusters?  Faculty who teach a University
Studies course are eligible.  Courses must be grouped together so that
each course satisfies a different core requirement.

4.       What sort of support is available?  The University College will
offer up to five Core Clusters in Fall, 2009.  Each will be provided up
to $5,000 to supplement instruction, promote student learning, or pay
for on or off-campus experiences that enliven students' experience of
the courses.

5.       How are the core cluster proposals selected?  A selection
committee will review all proposals and then select winners to be
offered in Fall, 2009.  The deadline for proposals is March 6, 2009;
decisions will be complete by March 13, 2009.

6.       What happens at the development event?  Dr. Dobbs makes a brief
presentation.  Describes the goals and parameters of the idea.  There
will be a time for Q&A as well as brainstorming possible cluster ideas.
All who are interested in interdisciplinarity or participation in the
cluster proposal process are invited.

 

 

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