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Meeting Minutes: Committee on Academic Affairs

March 7, 2002
Board of Regents System Office
Atlanta, Georgia

MINUTES

  1. Welcome, Introduction of Members and Visitors
    The Administrative Committee on Academic Affairs (ACAA) held its spring meeting on March 3, 2002 at the Board of Regents System Office in Atlanta. Dr. Bettie Rose Horne, presiding chairperson, provided welcoming remarks. Dr. Bill Bompart, Vice President at Augusta State University, was lauded for his years of service and accomplishments in the University System. Dr. Frank Butler, Vice Chancellor for Academics, Fiscal, and Student Affairs, awarded Dr. Bompart with a Certificate of Merit and laudatory remarks concerning his service to Augusta State University. In addition, Mr. Brian Rugg, son of VPAA Dr. Edwin Rugg, was acknowledged for his award as National Cooperative (Co-op) Student of the Year by Dr. Dan Papp, Senior Vice Chancellor for Academics and Fiscal Affairs. The minutes of the October 16, 2001 meeting were approved as distributed.

  2. Items for Discussion/Input

    1. University System Strategic Plan
      Dr. Dan Papp opened the discussion by describing the outcome of the Board's meeting at the Jolly Lodge in which strategic plan themes were discussed. Dr. Papp explained that the Board had developed the strategic plan through goal#11 involving the maximization of cooperation with other state agencies. Over the course of the next few months, the Board will focus on the following objectives:

      Goal 1: Enhancing Learning Outcomes (Objectives: Graduates who are intellectually and ethically informed; graduates with defined skills & knowledge; graduates who are capable of leadership; graduates who are capable of creative endeavors; and graduates who are contributing citizens in an increasingly interconnected world).

      Goal 3: Ensuring Quality Curriculum (Objectives: Improve continuously the curriculum; improve continuously the quality of research activities; and improve continuously the quality of international opportunities)

      Goal 9: Assessing Seamlessness (Objectives: Seamlessness with K-12; Seamlessness with DTAE; and Seamlessness with independents)

      Goal 11: "The University System of Georgia will ensure access to academic excellence and educational opportunities for all Georgians by maximizing cooperation with other state agencies, boards, the Office of the Governor, and the General Assembly, while maintaining the constitutional authority of the Board of Regents.

      Dr. Papp explained that the full set of recommendations would be sent electronically. Dr. Papp further requested that the VPAAs focus on the following areas when reviewing the strategic plan: 1) sabbaticals in addition to leave policies; 2) a lift of the 120 semester-credit-hour cap on certain majors; and 3) assessments of student enrollment in terms of credit hour generation. These and other items will be presented to the Board as simply, options for further exploration. Dr. Papp reminded the group that the Board had already reviewed recommendations concerning Goal #2: Expanding Access and Goal #4: Increasing Recruitment and Retention. Dr. Papp announced that by either May or June, the Board would have a finalized strategic plan. Afterwards, all institutions would be asked to review their mission statements. The Chancellor would review institutional mission statements followed by additional principals.

    2. Status of the FY 2003 Budget
      Dr. Papp announced that the FY 2003 budget would require that the University System operate at 5% less than 2002 base budget funds. MRR funds would be reduced between 38% and 40%. Dr. Papp emphasized that the University System would operate under the understanding that personnel layoffs could not be used to decrease the shortfall in the budget. Dr. Papp further indicated that discussions were underway concerning the retirement percentages for personnel reinstatements in terms of salary caps.

    3. Process for and Implications of the Report Card from the Office of Educational Accountability
      Dr. Papp discussed the fact that several indicators were reported to the Board of Regents through the Committee on Education, Research, and Extension. The state data research mission requires that the University System implement a system of data reporting, retrievability, and consolidation in order to meet assessment requirements. Dr. Cathie Mayes Hudson, Associate Vice Chancellor for Strategic Research & Analysis, announced that in compliance with the deadlines for the first report card, the System Office would attempt to report data to OEA by summer 2002 or late November 2002 dependent upon the SIRS data available. Dr. Hudson explained that OEA is attempting to derive parallel indicators by requesting, among other items, licensure pass rates through such examinations as NCLEX, PRAXIS, and other professional indicators. Attempts are being made to replicate PSC data in SIRS. Negotiations and discussions are underway with the Georgia Board of Nursing to gain access to NCLEX data. Drs. Hudson and Papp indicated that the following decision points required further discussion and input from the VPAAs:

      1. Do we include graduate rates for every type of degree and certificate awarded in the System?
      2. How do we calculate the number of degrees awarded when some of the programs are transfer degrees? Do national comparisons exist?
      3. To what other peer institutions will we compare graduation rates?
      4. Will the System Office use national definitions?
      5. What reporting guidelines will be issued for learning support students?

    4. Mathematics Regents' Test
      Dr. Kathleen Burk, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Director of Regents' Testing, announced that an advisory committee would be formed to develop the Mathematics Regents' Test. The test would be designed to measure the quantitative achievement of students and to determine how to equip USG students with a quantitative threshold of knowledge. The test will be developed for use in an electronic environment. Dr. Burk explained that under the auspices of Dr. Kris Biesinger, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Advanced Learning Technologies, and the Advanced Learning Technology group, faculty members involved in writing test questions for the exam could benefit from hi-tech templates and teach the material in a positive manner. Dr. Burk requested that each VPAA forward the names of faculty members from a broad array of disciplines that are interested in participating on this committee. The next committee meeting has been scheduled for March 21. Dr. Burk explained that in 2003 the Mathematics Regents' Test would be field-tested and later, upon collection of data, implemented for students entering the University System by summer 2003. Dr. Burk assured the VPAAs that the test would be subject to a broad review given its impact on the core curriculum.

    5. Mathematics Initiative
      Dr. Frank Butler stated that at a recent meeting of the Education Coordinating Council, the University System Mathematics Initiative was presented by Chancellor Meredith and endorsed by Governor Barnes. The Mathematics Initiative is a University System sponsored project that will comprehensively review mathematics in our colleges and universities, including how it is defined, the expectations of certain degree programs that use it as a prerequisite, expectations derived from taking certain courses, and outcomes associated with the conferral of degrees for mathematics and science teachers and professors. Funding support for the project has been applied for through National Science Foundation grants. Dr. Butler explained, "Under the collaboration of P-16 councils, K-12 institutions, and the University System, efforts will be made to align each system to promote mathematics at all levels."

    6. Report from Chancellor Meredith
      Dr. Dan Papp introduced Chancellor Thomas Meredith to the VPAAs and provided a brief biosketch highlighting Dr. Meredith's former service as Chancellor of the University of Alabama System, president and professor of education at Western Kentucky University, and vice chancellor for executive affairs at the University of Mississippi. Chancellor Meredith opened his remarks by stating, "we have been on the job eight weeks and five days and for the first time since 1954 we do not have a revenue stream for state agencies." Chancellor Meredith indicated that this is an opportunity for leadership and the challenge is to do positive things during lean times. Chancellor Meredith briefed the VPAAs on the outcome of the legislative session. "Although our revenues have decreased, we are in better shape when compared to North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. . . . We will still be able to provide pay raises. . Funding cuts are projected for MRR expenditures . . . Although we will experience a budget shortfall, we still provide a 4:1 return on investment for the State," explained Chancellor Meredith. Chancellor Meredith further noted, "When state budget shortfalls occur, many states resort to higher education budgets. This is a false economic outlook. There must be a more equitable distribution of decreases in state agency allowances," he explained. In order to be treated as equal partners, Chancellor Meredith implored the VPAAS to spend more time with local legislators and challenged the institutions to "pull together." Chancellor Meredith further explained that the picture looks great, but that certain areas of improvement need to be addressed including NCLEX scores, PRAXIS scores, inter-institutional partnerships, and partnerships with other state agencies. Chancellor Meredith indicated that the presidents had been solicited for their comments and thoughts concerning priorities that required immediate attention and long-term planning.

  3. Information Items

    1. Status of Comprehensive Program Review
      Dr. Butler announced that a draft concerning the comprehensive program review process was outlined to collapse programmatic information in a condensed format. Special attention would be given to triggered programs. Members of the Regents Academic Committee on Institutional Effectiveness (RACIE) have provided advisory support on the electronic format, details and process associated with Comprehensive Program Review. Dr. Butler reported that a pilot would be available for institutional participation by spring. Dr. Butler also indicated that comprehensive program reviews will focus on numerical productivity, but that quality and viability would be equally relevant and assessed. It was indicated that the System Office and RACIE would review the requirements for two-year college reports through comprehensive program review. In addition, Dr. Butler distributed revised copies of the Letter of Intent process concerning new program proposals.

    2. Active Duty Military Admissions
      Dr. Butler announced that a committee had been formed to review and determine how the University System could admit military personnel as traditional students. Dr. Butler explained, that the University System was engaging in this process in order to be at the forefront of providing educational access opportunities to military personnel. Dr. Butler requested that suggestions for pilot admissions regarding military access be sent to Dr. John Wolfe, Associate Vice Chancellor for Faculty Affairs. In the meantime, an interim report would be sent to area base commanders. It is projected that the pilot will begin Fall 2002.

    3. Policy Manual Changes
      Dr. Papp reminded the VPAAs that last fall a panel eliminated the requirements associated with Memorandum I appointments. In addition, Board approval for institutes and centers was reduced to an annual reporting requirement at the beginning of each fiscal year. Dr. Papp announced that during the January 2002 Board meeting, the mini-core was established. The mini-core allows for the transfer of specific core curriculum courses in English and mathematics between the USG and DTAE.
      [ Policy Manual, section 303.05 ]

    4. G.L.O.B.E. and Advanced Learning Technologies (ALT)
      Dr. Papp announced that efforts were underway to bring the operations of GLOBE and ALT closer together. Both entities will soon be relocated to the Gwinnett University Center. Dr. Kris Biesinger announced that at least 1.9% of all courses are offered via distance learning. The interest in such courses is growing due to the influence of GSAMS and the Internet. According to Dr. Biesinger, interest in distance education has increased 50%, but GSAMS participation has decreased by 25%. Dr. Biesinger indicated that threshold minimums and maximums would be established upon completion of the SACS Substantive Change Review. The University System was the first multi-sector higher education entity to participate in SACS Substantive Change Review for distance education. Dr. Biesinger further explained that ALT could be used to expand access to technology and develop scalable and sustainable solutions for instruction. During April 1 -2, the annual TLAT conference will be held to address such solutions and new technologies.

    5. Changes in eCore™ & WebCT™
      Dr. Biesinger stated, "The company that currently hosts Georgia G.L.O.B.E. closed its business and terminated its host agreement with the University System. Therefore, the University System will be looking for a web service provider to enable student access and use of eCore™ and WebCT™ during summer session. The VPAAs were advised to contact Dr. Biesinger if their institution was interested in becoming an affiliate of Georgia G.L.O.B.E. Affiliations have been developed for the following institutions: Clayton College & State University, Floyd College, State University of West Georgia, Columbus State University, and Valdosta State University. Dr. Biesinger informed the VPAAs that a system site license was under negotiation for WebCT™. Currently, thirteen institutions are hosted entirely by the system web server; seven institutions have been certified to host their own server (especially in cases of disaster recovery); and fourteen institutions run courses on their own WebCT™ server but are not certified. The new product will be beta-tested to determine if it can run on oracle. The System expense with regard to the cost for this product is projected to increase by $350,000. It was suggested that VPAAs determine whether they would retain their current software package or elect to move their applications to a VISTA product at no additional cost. VISTA could further alleviate costs by providing, at a minimum, 24 months of continuous coverage and additional product warranties.

    6. OIIT Strategic Plan
      Mr. Randall Thursby, Vice Chancellor - Information & Technology/CIO, announced that a core-team and sub-groups had been formed to further develop the information & instructional technology strategic planning project. As of the February Board meeting, a report and recommendations had been delivered to the Board of Regents Information and Instructional Technology Committee. The plan has been modified and it will be presented for Board approval at the March meeting to be held later this month. Upon ratification by the Board, the strategic planning committee will meet to further define the objectives and tasks that will operationalize the strategic plan.

    7. Senior Vice Chancellor Report and Announcements
      Dr. Dan Papp explained that the System was engaged in inter-institutional cooperation through external degree offerings of 4-4-2 programs. Ms. Margaret Taylor will be distributing a letter to the institutions in order to develop a comprehensive list of all external degree programs offered within the System. This information is required in order to know where access points are available for Georgia's students.

      Dr. Papp reported that HB 1231 was currently under discussion in committee. If the bill were approved, it would require faculty members to report student studying at USG institutions on a visa who does not appear in class in two weeks. The student would then be reported to the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS).

      Ms. Tonya Lam reported that 24 institutions had volunteered to participate in the Curriculum Advising and Program Planning (CAPP) application. According to Ms. Lam, "CAPP is an application within Banner2000 that provides institutions with a comprehensive tool that offers flexible student tracking toward a degree, certificate, or diploma. The application enables faculty, students and administrators to track a student's progress through course requirements in the attainment of a degree." At least 15 of the aforementioned institutions will participate in a pilot test of the program by summer 2002. Upon successful implementation at Georgia College & State University, a prototype will be developed for each system institution without modifying baseline Banner2000 programs.

  4. Discipline Committee Reports
    Dr. Kathleen Burk, Asst. Vice Chancellor and Director of Regents' Testing informed the VPAAs of the Academic Committee recommendations on behalf of Dr. Dorothy Zinsmeister, Senior Associate. The following is a synopsis of the recommendations:

    1. Academic Committee on Computer Science and Systems Analysis
      Recommendation: In order to reflect a change in program focus, the committee recommends that its name be changed from the Academic Advisory Committee on Computer Science and Systems Analysis to the Academic Advisory Committee on Computing Disciplines.

      The motion was adopted as recommended.

    2. Academic Committee on Chemistry, Physics and Astronomy
      Recommendation: The following resolution was passed unanimously by all members present at a joint meeting of the Regents' Academic Advisory Committee on Chemistry and the Regents' Academic Advisory Committee on Physics and Astronomy:

      In accordance with the guidelines established by the American Chemical Society and the American Association of Physics Teachers, the Regents' Academic Advisory Committee on Chemistry and the Regents' Academic Advisory Committee on Physics and Astronomy strongly recommend that chemistry faculty course-load and physics faculty course-load be measured in contact hours for the purpose of workload assignment.

      The main motion was rejected and a subsidiary motion to refer the recommendation back to the committee was adopted with the understanding that the resolution was an institutional matter.

    3. Academic Committee on Education Preparation
      Recommendation #1: DTAE courses that are designed to meet the five learning outcomes of the USG area F for early childhood education are acceptable for transfer to USG institutions from those students who have completed the AAT degree in Early Childhood Care Education at a DTAE/COC accredited institution.

      Area F Courses
      DTAE USG
      ECE 101 Foundations of Education
      ECE 103 and 203 Human Growth and Development
      ECE 201 Exceptional Children

      This DTAE-to-USG articulation/transfer agreement does not prohibit the transfer of additional course work on an institution-by-institution basis.**

      Recommendation #2: Implementation of the DTAE-to-USG course articulation agreement in Early Childhood Education will coincide with the implementation of the "Mini-Core" in January 2002.

      **Students who have been awarded the AAT degree in Early Childhood Care Education have completed 110 quarter hours of course work, have approximately 500 hours of field experiences, have completed the equivalent of English 1101 and 1102, Math 1101, 1111, or 1113, have taken courses in speech, psychology and sociology, and have completed 16 education courses.

      The motion was removed from the table in order to refer the recommendations back to the committee for clarification on the following topical areas: college parallels, prerequisites, impact on two-year colleges, GPECC action, and to compare the contents, names and nomenclature of courses.

    4. Academic Committee on English (2 Items)

      Recommendation #1: That the Regents' Test reports separate completion rates of students who did not successfully complete English 1101 at the testing institution.

      The motion was approved to refer this item to the Office of Strategic Research and Analysis for implementation.

      Recommendation #2: That standardized test scores that predict successful completion of the Regents' Reading Test within 95% probability be accepted for completion of the Regents' Reading Test.

      The motion was approved to refer this item to the Regents' Testing Program Office for implementation.

    5. Academic Committee on International Education (4 items)

      Recommendation #1: That the Administrative Committee on Academic Affairs accept the System Council on International Education's endorsement of NAFSA'S Principles for International Student and Scholar Services as guidelines for use in its 34 institutions.

      The motion was approved as recommended.

      Recommendation #2: That the Administrative Committee on Academic Affairs accept the System Council on International Education's endorsement of the Standards and Guidelines of the Council for Advancement of Standards in Higher Education that pertain specifically to International Student Programs and Services as guidelines for use in its 34 institutions.

      The motion was approved as recommended.

      Recommendation #3: That the Administrative Committee on Academic Affairs accept the System Council on International Education's encouragement of each institution in the University System of Georgia to have at least one person who is designated as responsible for the coordination of services for international students and scholars. Furthermore, it is essential that the designated person receive the appropriate training, be assigned an adequate budget, and have the necessary knowledge regarding INS regulations, admissions processes, tax requirements, etc.

      The motion was denied with a recommendation that the item be changed as a "reminder" to System institutions.

      Recommendation #4: That the Administrative Committee on Academic Affairs accept the System Council on International Education's encouragement of each institution in the University System of Georgia to require international students to have adequate health insurance.

      The motion was approved as recommended.

  5. Summer Conference and Other Announcements
    Dr. Bettie Rose Horne announced that the summer meeting of the Chief Academic Officers would be held at Sea Palms Resort during mid-June. Additional details are forthcoming concerning conference dates and registration information. The theme of the meeting will focus on student retention.

  6. Adjournment
    The meeting was adjourned at 3:30 p.m.

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