Administrators should allow student input on academic ideas
Photo/Mark Nash
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The Syracuse University administration should keep students and faculty informed as progress continues to develop regarding recently presented ideas about the future of the university.
“Navigating the Changing Landscape: Academic Strategy at Syracuse University,” a presentation by Chancellor Nancy Cantor and Vice Chancellor and Provost Eric Spina, outlined conceptual ideas that could affect the academic future of SU.
These ideas include the implementation of massive, open online courses, three-year degrees, an online consortia and the differentiation of faculty profiles.
The presentation described a three-year degree that would improve affordability and accessibility for students by taking advantage of outside credits and summer courses. Also, faculty members could potentially be grouped as either teaching or research professors, based on the category in which they perform best.
The presentation, though it promotes positive change, is currently vague and needs input. The ideas presented should concentrate on proper academic improvements for SU specifically. To determine what these are, the administration should reach out to students for input.
Faculty forums about issues facing the university will continue on May 6. It is crucial that administrators reach out to the student body to learn the effects that these potential university-wide plans may have on student life. Both students and professors, as they will experience the changes within the classroom, should approve any major alterations that could improve the academic environment.
SU faces issues with housing, allocation of funds and the chancellor search. It is important that the administration continue to consider improving university-wide academic prosperity a priority.
Every process toward change must begin somewhere. This presentation marked a promising beginning. It is crucial that the administration involve not only university faculty who have already been active in voicing their opinions, but the students as well.