Reconstructed curriculum

Stacks of paper once used by teachers to handle their curriculum will be transitioning to an online database.

CurricUNET is an Internet-based software application designed to convert and enhance the development of curriculum for instructors.

“It’s a mind shift from putting a signature on a piece of paper to going onto a site and clicking a button for approval,” Technology Systems Manager James Eyestone said.

The College Instruction Committee (CIC) is planning to implement the application into the college by the spring 2013 semester.

“Because everything is submitted in paper, (CurricUNET) would eliminate errors and make it easier for instructors.” senior administrative assistant office of instruction Shondra West said.

Since the implementation of Title V there are regulations on  basic skills requirements for a course. Proposals for new classes or change in curriculum include course outlines, syllabus descriptions and prerequisite and co-requisite validation forms.

When instructors don’t submit the forms, a total of 10 pages, the suggested course is delayed, West said.

“I have seen situations when some information is missing and it complicates the process. The proposal is then pushed back for revision. That slows down the process,” West said.

The proposal must also undergo analysis and evaluation by the CIC before approval.   
When the CIC reviews the proposal, they make sure the suggested course is acceptable, used for transferring and provides recommendations.

“Because we have to make sure the course is qualified, there are outlines and paper copies (of their proposal.) There is just so much paperwork,” matriculation services coordinator Kenyetta Tribble said.

With CurricUNET being implemented, the system will make the process faster with changing the curriculum for new courses or faculty aiming to make their courses CSU/UC transferable.

When the CIC finds a general error, the committee sends the proposal back to the faculty member for revision. Papers start to accumulate and missing documents also become an issue.

“We were tired of putting everything on paper and making sure not to lose it,” administration of justice Chairperson Rick Ramos said. “We expect the college is going to go through a change. It’s going to be life-changing.”

Tutoring coordinator Jason Berner said because there are issues setting up the system, the college cannot implement the program yet.