SPIG Minutes for Monday, October 4th, 2004

2:30-4 PM

Attendants: Deborah Bordelon, Michelle Falgoust, Lanny Foss, Susan Fredine, David Lanoue, and Todd Stanislav.

The minutes of the 9-20-04 meeting were reviewed and amended. Final approval will be given once Anne has reviewed the minutes.

Discussion of SWOT Analysis

The date, time, and location were discussed. It was agreed that the SWOT Analysis would occur, pending Janet's availability, on Saturday, October 23, 2004 from 9 AM - 2 PM in Library 501..

There was discussion about which other faculty members might join us for the SWOT Analysis. Todd, Sue, and Lanny agreed to contact other faculty members.

As possible preparation for the SWOT Analysis, Todd mentioned a few journals or other publications that may have articles of interest.

Todd also mentioned that he and Bart had recently looked through the Center's database where feedback from faculty and student reports is maintained. This feedback, organized based on a variable and questions format, may include useful information for the SWOT analysis. Todd noted that he and Bart had found feedback relevant to "strengths," "weaknesses," and "opportunities," but not "threats." Todd said that he and Bart hope to review the data before October 23. Should they find something particularly helpful, they will bring it to the SPIG members' attention. College of Pharmacy (COP) Strategic Planning Draft (revised 7-13-03) Lanny walked the group through the COP's strategic plan. He noted that some goals and strategies were potentially relevant to the Center for the Advancement of Teaching, including Issue 2, Goals 1 (items 1-5) and 4 (items 1-4). David also noted that the Center's workshops and technology initiatives could serve the COP. Regarding the latter, the "Top 200 Drugs List" could utilize technology for purposes of improving teaching and student learning.

"Vision" document from Dr. Gene D'Amour

Todd noted that the document apparently has been read by senior administrators at Xavier and has been approved by Xavier's Board of Trustees.

College or Arts and Sciences (A & S) Planning Document, Year 2002-2007

Debbie walked the group through a consideration of the A & S Planning Document. The group noted that Goal 1, Subgoal A, Goal 2, Subgoal B, and Goal 4, subgoals B and C were particularly relevant to the Center. Regarding Goal 2, Subgoal B, David noted that the VPAA's document also leaves room for the Center's help in assessment, though the VPAA's office may prefer to see the Center help individuals, not departments. David also suggested that the Center should have ex officio membership in more college and university committees that address academics, assessment, and other teaching and learning issues.

Todd walked the group through the "Visions" document. He noted that Priority I, Focus 3 (items 2-4) and Focus 4 (item 2), and Priority II, Focus 2 had perhaps the most relevance to the Center. Lanny noted that Priority II, Focus 2 was relevant too, especially when considering service learning. David indicated that Priority IV, Focus 2 was also relevant, again with regard to service learning.

Finally, Todd and David shared information about the PLACE Fund concept paper the Center was working on. David will forward the latest draft to everyone.

— Minutes respectfully submitted by Michelle Falgoust,
Administrative Assistant in the Center for the Advancement of Teaching