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Department of Special Education And Communication Disorders Process for Curriculum Development

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education

Faculty Meeting, May 5, 1995

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Bob Campbell, Patti Campbell, Lila Carson, Tish Consolini, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Janet Harrison, Bob Johnston, Beth Mercer, Frances Smith, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, Juliann Woods Cripe, and Sue Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 2:10 pm with Dr. Gunter presiding. The minutes from the March 31, 1995 meeting were approved as presented.

New Programs for the Next 5-7 Years: Of the three new programs the department submitted to the COE Executive Committee, the Early Childhood/ Early Intervention Masters Degree in Education was rated first by the committee, while the Hearing Impaired Certification program was also positively received. The Audiology Masters Degree in Education was rated far enough down the list that it was dropped from consideration.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education

Faculty Meeting, June 8, 1995

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Bob Campbell, Lila Carson, Tish Consolini, J. W. Cripe, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Janet Harrison, Bob Hull, Bob Johnston, J. Lee, Beth Mercer, Tom Reed, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, and Susan Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 1:10 pm with Dr. Gunter presiding. The minutes from the May 5, 1995 meeting were approved as presented.

Specialized Information

INTASC Standards: Dr. Reed reported on the INTASC Standards, based on the 1989-90 College of Education's Knowledge Base document, and how to integrate all 10 INTASC principles into each undergraduate and graduate program (with the exception of the M. Ed. in MR) by July 1, 1995. It was suggested that faculty members review the principles and identify which ones are currently being addressed in each course. Dr. Reed then recommended that the identified principles be included in each course syllabus, positioning this INTASC section above the course objectives. This would ensure that all the principles would be addressed at one time or another upon the completion of the program. By so doing, it will be possible to evaluate each program and assess how these principles are being satisfied. Discussion included the need to review each course individually vs. overall program review for INTASC principles identification. It was determined that due to time constraints, the identification process would be done individually (by July 1), while an overall program identification will follow, prior to the November, 1995 Professional Standards Committee visit. Dr. Deavours and Dr. Gunter will disseminate the responsibility for revision of the various program courses throughout the faculty.

Multicultural Diversity: Ms. Worth reported that, in relation to INTASC Standards, the multicultural diversity issues are, for the most part, being addressed. However, the problem is that adequate documentation of policy has been overlooked in the various programs' course syllabi. Ms. Worth recommended the following statement be included in each course syllabus: "Every opportunity will be taken to accommodate for different approaches to learning and to adapt instructional approaches for a diversity of learners and instruction." During discussion, Dr. Gunter suggested that this generic statement be inserted in the INTASC section of each course syllabus which may then be followed with any additional statement(s) the individual faculty member may wish to include. Following discussion, the faculty agreed to table further action and approved the appointment of Ms. Worth, Dr. Smith, and Dr. Uhlir to address the multicultural diversity issue in a way that will satisfy INTASC Standards and to report their recommendation to the department at the next faculty meeting.

Early Intervention Master's Degree: Drs. Lee & Cripe distributed copies of the Early Intervention M.Ed. program proposal for the faculty to review. A motion was made and seconded to accept the proposal as presented. Discussion included concern on changing SLP 733, and the certification eligibility for this program which would include those who have certification in the area of SPE, SLP, and ECE. Following discussion, the motion to approve of this Early Intervention M.Ed. program proposal was voted on and approved.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education

Faculty Meeting, September 13, 1995

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Bob Campbell, Patti Campbell, Lila Carson, Tish Consolini, Juliann Woods Cripe, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Bob Hull, Bob Johnston, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Tom Robinson, Fran Smith, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, Howard Wilson, and Susan Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 1:05 pm with Dr. Gunter presiding.

Documents for PSC & NCATE: The PSC & NCATE Committee will visit the week of November 11-14, 1995. In preparation for the NCATE visit, the CEC Portfolio & Rejoinder and ASHA Annual Report (which verify program accreditation), the SPE Annual Report, and the program matrices are available for review by the visiting committee. All course syllabi and faculty biographical information, photos, and vitae are on the network. Appreciation goes to Mark Swift for the creation of the COE Home Page and the biographical information on the network which is accessible via Netscape. When reviewing the SPE Annual Report, Dr. Gunter congratulated the faculty on the increase of professional writings and presentations, professional committee participation, and community service. He also reported an increase in the number of students graduating from the various programs. It was noted, however, that the department needs to improve on its outcomes in various areas. The item analysis on ASHA examination results indicated a pass rate of 70%. Various ways to improve these statistics will be addressed by the appropriate committee(s). Dr. Gunter requested each faculty member read the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education report if they have not already done so.

Dean Toth discussed the objectives of NCATE's Conceptual Framework and the need to let students be aware of these objectives. The faculty need have an understanding of what they are teaching, the importance of that class as it relates to the program, and be able to articulate these findings to the NCATE visiting committee. In addition, the doctoral program, semester conversion, undergraduate admission requirements, expansion to southwest Georgia, and the formation of the Faculty Development Center are just some of the projects on the agenda for the 95-96 academic year. Some of the College of Education's accomplishments include the high quality of faculty, increasing of grant awards, acquisition of the SPE building facilities which has a projected completion date of January 1, 1997, the establishment of the COE Advising Center and the Distance Learning Education program, and advances made in the area of technology.

Dr. Pam Hertzog, Co-chair of the Conceptual Framework Committee, discussed the lack of conformity within the various departments in the COE when the 1989 Knowledge Base was revisited. The committee established ten INTASC Principles, which would achieve program objectives within the COE focusing on the theme "Developing professionals for schools". Each course within a program will address various individual principles. Upon completion of the program, the students will have experienced all 10 of the principles and both the faculty and students should be able to articulate these objectives to the NCATE committee. Discussion centered on how to incorporate SLP professionals into the teacher theme. It was also noted that the conceptual framework of the COE is constantly changing, always evolving while encouraging the increase of collaboration.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education

Faculty Meeting, October 18, 1995

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Bob Campbell, Tish Consolini, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Bob Hull, Bob Johnston, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Marsha Reed, Tom Robinson, Fran Smith, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, Howard Wilson, and Susan Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 2:30 pm with Dr. Gunter presiding.

Program & Curriculum: Dr. Lee reported that the committee members attended the College & University Forum held in Macon earlier this month. The purpose of the forum was to discuss the semester system transition process. Dr. Uhlir commented that the committee has also been working on the generic and specialized MRDD competencies.

Early Intervention Master's Degree Update: Dr. Gunter reported that the Early Intervention Master's Degree proposal has been approved by the COE's Executive Committee and is being sent on to the Academic Council. From there it will proceed to the Faculty Senate which is scheduled to meet November 9th.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education

Faculty Meeting, November 8, 1995

Faculty present: Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Bob Campbell, Patti Campbell, Tish Consolini, Juliann Woods Cripe, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Bob Hull, Bob Johnston, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Tom Robinson, Fran Smith, Dick Uhlir, Howard Wilson, and Susan Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 2:55 pm with Dr. Gunter presiding.

Conceptual Framework: Dr. Pam Hertzog was invited to update the faculty members on the Conceptual Framework Committee's efforts. Dr. Hertzog discussed the Committee's development of the ten Conceptual Framework Principles and their evolution from the original 1989 Knowledge Base objectives. The task force then determined the need to identify what beginning teachers should know, and this developed into the adopted theme of "Developing professionals for schools" which would encompass the wide-range of professionals within the College of Education.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education

Faculty Meeting, January 12, 1996

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Bob Campbell, Patti Campbell, Lila Carson, Tish Consolini, Juliann Woods Cripe, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Bob Hull, Bob Johnston, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Marsha Reed, Tom Robinson, Fran Smith, Ruth Stonestreet, Forrest Umberger, Howard Wilson, and Susan Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 1:05 pm with Dr. Gunter presiding

Program & Curriculum: Dr. Lee reported that the committee will meet on Tuesday, January 16, 1996, to establish the functions and goals of the committee.

Early Intervention Proposal: Unfortunately, the last Academic Committee meeting was canceled due to insufficient attendance to make a quorum. However, the information concerning the Master's in Early Intervention proposal has been disseminated to the Council members via E-mail for them to review. Initial comments received have been highly favorable.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education

Faculty Meeting, March 1, 1996

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Bob Campbell, Patti Campbell, Lila Carson, Tish Consolini, Juliann Woods Cripe, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Bob Johnston, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Tom Robinson, Fran Smith, Ruth Stonestreet, Forrest Umberger, Howard Wilson, and Susan Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 12:35 pm with Dr. Gunter presiding.

Program & Curriculum: Dr. Lee reported that the Committee had met to discuss its role and function as intermediate between the programs and faculty members. Also addressed was the possibility of establishing some courses that will cross the SPE and SLP programs.

Semester Conversion Update: Dr. Gunter reported that Dr. Benjamin Lloyd had appointed a committee to review the core curriculum university wide. Dr. Gunter suggested that the Program and Curriculum Committee begin examination of the department's curriculum looking at changes in course numbers, credit hours, and competencies as soon as possible. While the actual conversion is scheduled for implementation Fall 1998, these revisions will need to be ready by Spring 1997 in order to have them printed and available for university-wide dissemination.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education

Faculty Meeting, April 9, 1996

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Bob Campbell, Patti Campbell, Tish Consolini, Juliann Woods Cripe, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Bob Hull, Bob Johnston, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Marsha Reed, Tom Robinson, Fran Smith, Ruth Stonestreet, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, and Howard Wilson.

The meeting was called to order at 2:30 pm with Dr. Gunter presiding.

Program & Curriculum: No report. Dr. Gunter assigned this committee the task of creating a draft of the upper division and graduate curriculum for the various programs within the department as well as a sequence for semester conversion. The due date for the draft is June 30, 1996.

COE Mission Statement: Dr. Uhlir made a motion to adopt the COE Mission Statement as presented. The motion was seconded and discussion was called. Dr. Reed explained that each comment and concern made by the faculty members as well as students had been responded to and several revisions had resulted. Question was called and the motion to accept the COE Mission Statement as presented was unanimous.

Timeline for Semester Conversion: The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia has established a timeline for semester conversion curriculum developments and has designated July 1 as the deadline for Area F of the core curriculum. Areas A-E are being addressed university-wide rather than college-wide. Dr. Johnston noted that since no changes will be made for the next 2 years prior to the semester conversion, it was suggested that the departments take this into consideration when planning. Dr. Gunter, who attended the College and University Forum which was held during spring break, reported that Georgia State University has already submitted a draft for their graduate programs.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education

Faculty Meeting, May 14, 1996

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Lila Carson, Tish Consolini, Juliann Woods Cripe, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Bob Hull, Bob Johnston, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Tom Robinson, Fran Smith, Ruth Stonestreet, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, Howard Wilson, and Susan Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 12:10 pm with Dr. Gunter presiding.

Department Mission Statement: Dr. Gunter reported that at Executive Committee, Dean Toth requested that each department in the College of Education create their own specific mission statement. Dr. Gunter appointed the following faculty members to serve as a committee for this purpose: Juliann Woods Cripe, Chairperson; Russ Deavours, Julie Lee, Dick Uhlir, Tom Robinson and Corine Myers-Jennings, members.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders Faculty Meeting, September 11, 1996

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Bob & Patti Campbell, Lila Carson, Tish Consolini, Juliann Woods Cripe, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Bob Hull, Karla Hull, Bob Johnston, Kathy Kennedy, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Marsha Reed, Cheryl Rice, Tom Robinson, Fran Smith, Ruth Stonestreet, Shirley Thompson, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, Marty Venn, Howard Wilson, and Susan Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 1:00 pm with Dr. Gunter presiding.

COE Semester Conversion

Dr. Marsha Reed presented copies of the overview, mission, vision, and goals of the COE Framework for Excellence and the COE Strategic Plan for Fall 96-Fall 98. Dr. Reed encouraged the faculty to review the documents and e-mail her any suggestions or comments they would like to make. She then thanked Dr. Woods Cripe for her assistance in the development of the COE Framework for Excellence.

Department Mission Statement

Dr. Woods Cripe, as Chairperson of the Mission Committee for the Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders, presented a short 2 minute video entitled "A Recipe for Life" and reported on the second draft of the Proposed Mission Statement. As stated in the proposal, the "...department is driven by a commitment to the worth and dignity of all persons, in particular to those persons with disabilities, and their rights to access diversity competent, individual and family centered resources and services." In order to accomplish this mission, the following 4 areas are addressed through teaching, research, service, and staff development: (1) students; (2) research; (3) service; and (4) maintaining excellence. The vision statement itself reads as follows: "To teach and learn to our maximum potential so those with disabilities can achieve theirs..." Dr. Woods Cripe thanked the committee and the department faculty for their assistance and input. The proposal was submitted to the faculty members for review. Suggestions or comments may be submitted to Dr. Woods Cripe. Dr. Gunter urged the faculty members to read through the document and be prepared to discuss it at the next departmental meeting where approval will be sought.

Departmental Semester Conversion

New Core Curriculum: Copies of a memo sent out by Dr. Tomberline, Chair of the Core Curriculum Revision Committee, were distributed to the faculty to review. The Committee recommends the following 3 significant features in this proposal: First, that critical thinking skills be infused throughout the "New Core Curriculum"; second, that AREA B have the title of Regional and Global Perspectives and have a total requirement of four semester hours; and third, AREA D require eleven semester hours which include 2 four hour laboratory science courses. The Committee approved this proposal unanimously on July 3, 1996 and has presented the proposal to the Academic Committee and the Faculty Senate for approval.

Area F of the Core : Area F consists of two sections: "A. The prerequisite courses for upper division Professional Education Sequences and prerequisite courses for the upper division Teaching Field. Each section consists of no fewer than 6 and no more than 12 semester hours." and "B. Prerequisite courses for the upper division Teaching Field depend entirely on the structure of the major. Therefore, these course will be determined by the program faculty at each institution." This draft proposal was approved by the Teacher Education Advisory Council on April 19, 1996. The Executive Committee will present a proposal for Area F which will be 18 hours and hopefully include more content courses such as math, written expression, science or geography. The upper division and graduate course curricula will be developed by the departments. The deadline for program recommendations in our department will be mid October in order to send the proposals to the Executive Committee for approval. These proposals should include courses and credit hours. Dr. Gunter asked Dr. Deavours to Chair the Curriculum Committee for the SLP program, and Dr. Lee to Chair the Curriculum Committee for the SPE program. Both agreed to serve in these capacities and were offered any assistance needed from Dr. Gunter.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders Faculty Meeting, September 27, 1996

Faculty present: Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Lila Carson, Tish Consolini, Juliann Woods Cripe, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Karla Hull, Bob Hull, Bob Johnston, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Tom Robinson, Fran Smith, Ruth Stonestreet, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, Marty Venn, Howard Wilson, and Susan Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 11:35 am with Dr. Gunter presiding.

Program and Curriculum: Dr. Lee reported that since the purpose of the committee was to review curriculum within the various programs and this was being done in preparation to semester conversion, the committee had not formally met. However, once the subcommittees which were formed to review all the SPE & SLP programs had completed their recommendations, these would be reviewed by the committee for department faculty consideration.

Long Range Planning and Accreditation: Dr. Johnston reported that along with himself, Drs. Marsha Reed, Julie Lee, and Russ Deavours will be reviewing all aspects of the department's programs to ensure that the department/college retains its ASHA and CEC accreditation. In addition, emphasis on long-range planning and considerations such as adaptability for the new building facilities will be addressed in the near future. The faculty were encouraged to contribute their ideas and recommendations.

Old Business

Department Mission Statement: Dr. Woods Cripe presented the committee's proposal for the Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders' Mission Statement which included a few changes from last meetings' recommendation, and a motion was made and seconded to accept the proposal as presented. During discussion, Dr. Gunter suggested that rather than list the four points as "beliefs", the wording be changed to designate these as goals since in effect, that is what they are. Following the discussion, a call for the question was made and the motion was amended so that the proposal reads as follows: "To accomplish this mission, through our teaching, research, service, and staff development, our goals are to: (1) Graduate students... (2) Participate in research that... (3) Provide service to our consumers, community and profession that... (4) Maintain excellence in staff and program development through...". The amended motion was seconded, voted on and unanimously approved.

COE Semester Conversion: Dr. Deavours reported that three subcommittees had been established for the SLP programs which included on and off-campus practica and curriculum. These subcommittees have been meeting since before summer quarter but were unable to proceed until additional information concerning semester timelines were available. This information has now been distributed, therefore, the subcommittees will meet Monday, Sept. 30th. The chairs of these subcommittees will then meet with the rest of the committee at Grassy Pond to finalize their proposal for presentation to the department faculty.

Dr. Lee reported that the special education subcommittees have also been meeting since before summer quarter to revisit the current curriculum content. Following the initial meeting, it was determined that the programs would require total revision with the development of two tracks, establishing a common core and a pre-professional core at the start of the students' junior year. Variable areas of emphasis would branch off at the start of the senior year.

Dr. Gunter announced that notification concerning timelines for the completion of these proposals had just been received. Proposals from the departments should be submitted to the COE's Executive Committee prior to March, 1997. These proposals, once approved by the COE Executive Committee, will be presented to the Academic Committee during the May 5, 1997 meeting.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders Faculty Meeting, November 1, 1996

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Lila Carson, J. W. Cripe, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Bob Hull, Karla Hull, Bob Johnston, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Marsha Reed, Tom Robinson, Ruth Stonestreet, Forrest Umberger, Marti Venn and Howard Wilson.

The meeting was called to order at 11:35 a.m. with Dr. Gunter presiding. The minutes from the September 27, 1996 meeting were approved as presented.

New Business

COE Semester Conversion & Area F Update: Dr. Deavours first thanked the committee for all that was accomplished during the Grassy Pond retreat. Some of the major changes included moving Diagnostics to the graduate curriculum, moving Speech Science to the undergraduate curriculum, the addition of the new Seminar in Central Auditory Disorders course in the undergraduate curriculum, and the conversion of the prefix SLP (Speech/Language Pathology) to CD (Communication Disorders). Dr. Deavours explained that Dr. Johnston had attempted to incorporate as many ASHA requirements as possible into the graduate curriculum. The most notable change is the addition of practicum experiences each semester with a public school practicum during the 4th semester prior to the 5th semester when the students begin their externship experience. The public school practicum will include half a semester of coursework with the remaining time served at the practicum site. Copies of these proposals were distributed to each faculty member to review prior to the next faculty meeting when discussion will be held in preparation of a proposal recommendation. Dr. Lee will distribute copies of the special education curriculum proposal within the next week.

Dr. Gunter distributed a copy of an Area F curriculum example. He explained that Areas A, B, C, D, and E are being defined by the University Semester Conversion Committee and will offer multiple non-guided electives. The areas where the departments will have the most input are Area F and upper division curriculum. Dr. Gunter presented two possible Area F curriculum proposals which are as follows: (1) Of the remaining 9 hours, three will be chosen from within the Language Arts area, three from within the area of Mathematics, and the remaining three from any of the electives, as guided by the advisor. (2) To allow the students to select the entire 9 hours from any of the electives offered. Following a thorough discussion which emphasized the importance of the advisors being able to guide their students' elective choices in order to strengthen any weaknesses they may have, proposal #1 was unanimously approved.

EI Program Update: Dr. Woods Cripe reported that she had met with Dr. Deavours and Ms. Mercer concerning integrating the Early Intervention (EI) program into the Speech/Language Pathology (SLP) program as either a Specialization or a second Master's degree. She distributed a draft copy of the proposed integrated SLP and EI program for the faculty members to review. Dr. Woods Cripe emphasized that combining the two programs will not require any change in the SLP program but rather require the students to begin one quarter early in order to enroll in EDR 701(Educational Research) and SPE 708 (Serving Children with Low-incidence Disabilities). Dr. Gunter noted that if the students' acceptance into Graduate School is for fall, special permission will have to be requested from the Graduate School in order for the student to enroll one quarter early. Dr. Lee presented copies of a trainee demographic data sheet for the TaCTICS Early Intervention Training Program at VSU which denotes the rapid rate of growth this program has experienced in the 2 short years it has been offered. In 1995, the program had 11 students enrolled. In 1996, that number increased to 38, the majority of whom are SLP majors. Other areas affected are Early Childhood, Educational Leadership, Psychology, Social Work, Sociology, and Special Education. Dr. Lee encouraged the faculty members to review the program proposal and address any questions they may have to either her or Dr. Woods Cripe.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders Faculty Meeting, November 19, 1996

 

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Bob and Patti Campbell, J. W. Cripe, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Phil Gunter, Bob Hull, Karla Hull, Bob Johnston, Kathy Kennedy, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Tom Robinson, Ruth Stonestreet, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, Marti Venn, Howard Wilson and Sue Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 11:35 a.m. with Dr. Gunter presiding. The minutes from the November 1, 1996 meeting were approved as presented.

Special Business of the Day

COE Semester Conversion: Copies of the communication disorders undergraduate and graduate curriculum proposal were distributed and Dr. Deavours reiterated some of the major changes noted in the last meeting. During discussion, it was noted that the undergraduate program lacked a public school experience while the graduate program offered only one 3-hour public school experience. While it was generally agreed that more public school experience, especially in the undergraduate program, would be beneficial, unfortunately the placement opportunities are extremely limited and ASHA requirements will only accept a total of 6 practicum hours. It was also noted that the actual hours credited to these experiences did not reflect the number of hours the students spend with their placements. Dr. Woods Cripe also voiced her concern in that the perceived lack of such experiences could result in the loss of supervisory faculty based on FTEs. Dr. Dalton suggested the possibility of combining courses such as Clinical Methods which can be used in both the communication disorders and special education programs. Following this discussion, a motion was made to accept the proposed semester undergraduate and graduate curriculum for communication disorders as presented. The motion was seconded, voted on, and approved.

Copies of the curriculum proposal for the special education undergraduate mild and severe disabilities, graduate mild and severe disabilities, and early intervention programs were also distributed to the faculty to review. Dr. Lee reported that in the undergraduate curriculum, both the mild and severe specialties would share a common core during the junior year. It is during the senior year that the students must decide between mild and severe disabilities for their area of interest. She also noted that the students would not be eligible for certification upon completion of the undergraduate program. In addition, the preschool handicap specialization is an endorsement to a certification; it will not stand alone. It was also noted that many of the guided electives are in a variety of areas of education offering a wider dimension to the graduates' education. Following discussion, a motion was made to accept the curriculum proposal for special education with corrections concerning the number of credit hours required for guided electives. The motion as corrected was seconded, voted on, and approved unanimously.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders Faculty Meeting, January 8, 1997

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Bob and Patti Campbell, Lila Carson, J. W. Cripe, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Bob Hull, Karla Hull, Bob Johnston, Kathy Kennedy, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Marsha Reed, Tom Robinson, Frances Smith, Ruth Stonestreet, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, Marti Venn, Howard Wilson and Sue Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 11:35 a.m. with Dr. Gunter presiding. The minutes from the November 19, 1996 meeting were approved as presented.

Semester Conversion: Drs. Lee and Deavours have asked the faculty for copies of course descriptions. If you have not already gotten these to either of them, please do so before Friday, January 19, 1997. Since these descriptions are due to the COE Executive Committee on January 16th, the final date for changes will be on Wednesday, January 15th.

Addendum

Faculty members of the Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders met on Wednesday, January 15, 1997 at 11:35 a.m. for final recommendation of the curriculum package for semester conversion. After a thorough review of the various programs and a number of modifications, the program proposals, as a package, were approved for recommendation to the COE Executive Committee by a unanimous vote. It was determined that the Ed.S. Curriculum proposals would be submitted at a later date. With no further business, the special faculty meeting was adjourned at 1 pm

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders Faculty Meeting, February 26, 1997

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Bob and Patti Campbell, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Phil Gunter, Karla Hull, Bob Johnston, Kathy Kennedy, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Tom Robinson, Fran Smith, Ruth Stonestreet, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, Marti Venn, and Howard Wilson.

The meeting was called to order at 11:35 a.m. with Dr. Gunter presiding. The minutes from the January 8, 1997 meeting were approved as presented.

Semester Conversion: The final curricula proposals for the various programs in special education and communication disorders will be presented to the COE Executive Committee sometime in April. The Education Specialist proposal was well received. Upon approval from the COE Executive Committee, the proposals will be sent to the Academic Committee probably during the month of May.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders Faculty Meeting, April 7, 1997

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Bob and Patti Campbell, Lila Carson, Tish Consolini, Juliann Woods Cripe, Leslie Dalton, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Karla Hull, Bob Hull, Bob Johnston, Kathy Kennedy, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Marsha Reed, Tom Robinson, Fran Smith, Ruth Stonestreet, Shirley Thompson, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, Marti Venn, Howard Wilson and Sue Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 12:00 noon with Dr. Gunter presiding. The minutes from the February 26, 1997 meeting were approved as presented.

Old Business

Semester Conversion Program Curricula: While the content and sequence of the courses remain unchanged from the last time the faculty reviewed the programs, the first part of the packages have been revised. Drs. Lee, Deavours and Gunter have revised the format as it is now presented for departmental approval. The programs reviewed were as follows: B.S. Ed. in Communication Disorders, M.Ed. in Communication Disorders, Ed.S. in Communication Disorders, B.S. Ed. in Special Education/Mild Disabilities, M. Ed. in Special Education/Mild Disabilities, B.S..Ed. in Special Education/Severe Disabilities, M.Ed. in Special Education/Severe Disabilities, M.Ed. in Special Education/Early Intervention, and Ed.S. in Special Education. Within the various programs, outcomes were revised to relate specifically to that program. A detailed explanation for the revisions made within each of the programs was given, and a motion to accept the program curricula as presented was made, seconded, voted on, and approved unanimously with the exception of one "no" vote for the Ed.S. Program in Communication Disorders. The program curricula will now be presented to the Executive Committee on Monday, April 14, 1997.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders Faculty Meeting, May 1, 1997

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Bob Campbell, Tish Consolini, Juliann Woods Cripe, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Karla Hull, Bob Hull, Bob Johnston, Kathy Kennedy, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Tom Robinson, Ruth Stonestreet, Shirley Thompson, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, Marti Venn, Howard Wilson and Sue Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 11:45 a.m. with Dr. Gunter presiding. The minutes from the April 7, 1997 meeting were approved as presented.

Old Business

Semester Conversion Program Curricula: The program curricula for semester conversion have been approved by the COE Executive Committee and are available for viewing on the Web. The program curricula now go to the Graduate Executive Committee, which meets today at 2 pm. They will review all graduate programs, and upon approval, will forward the curricula to the Academic Affairs Executive Committee for final approval on May 5, 1997.

COE Curriculum Reform Committee: Drs. Stonestreet and Umberger , who serve as representatives for the department, requested faculty members' input on the curriculum outcomes prior to May 9, 1997.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders Faculty Meeting, May 22, 1997

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Bob Campbell, Patti Campbell, Lila Carson, Tish Consolini, Juliann Woods Cripe, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Bob Johnston, Kathy Kennedy, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Tom Robinson, Forrest Umberger, Marti Venn, and Howard Wilson.

The meeting was called to order at 12:00 noon with Dr. Gunter presiding. The minutes from the May 1, 1997 meeting were approved as corrected.

Old Business

Semester Conversion Program Curricula: The program curricula for semester conversion have been approved by the Graduate Executive Committee and the Academic Affairs Executive Committee. Course prefixes and numbers are being revised as well as some minor editorial corrections. Drs. Gunter, Lee, and Deavours will be meeting to revise a course of action for those students who will be affected during this transition period.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders Faculty Meeting, September 10, 1997

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Carol Barnett, Bob Campbell, Patti Campbell, Lila Carson, Tish Consolini, Juliann Woods Cripe, Leslie Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Bob Hull, Bob Johnston, Kathy Kennedy, Julie Lee, Corine Myers-Jennings, Tom Robinson, Fran Smith, Ruth Stonestreet, Shirley Thompson, F. D. Toth, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, Marti Venn, and Sue Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 1:30 p.m. with Dr. Gunter presiding. Dean Toth opened the meeting expressing enthusiasm for the new year, gratitude for this past year's accomplishments, and excitement over the new Special Education and Communication Disorders' building which is in the final planning stage.

Semester Conversion Handbook: A copy of VSU's Semester Transition Handbook was distributed to each faculty member. Dr. Gunter also distributed a copy of the BSEd, MSEd, and EdS degree programs being offered in the areas of special education and communication disorders which includes their descriptions, outcomes, requirements, class listings, and outcome assessments. All this information is to assist faculty members in the development of course syllabi and advisement of students. It was noted that the MEd programs in mild and severe disabilities and initial and add-on certification in mild and severe disabilities which were created to accommodate those students who earned their BS degrees from any other college or university, were submitted to the Executive Committee at the beginning of summer quarter and approved.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders Faculty Meeting, October 15, 1997

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Carol Barnett, Bob and Patti Campbell, Tish Consolini, Juliann Woods Cripe, Russ Deavours, Phil Gunter, Bob Hull, Corine Myers-Jennings, Julie Lee, Fran Smith, Dick Uhlir, Marti Venn, and Howard Wilson. The meeting was called to order at 3:05 p.m. with Dr. Gunter presiding.

Departmental Committee Reports:

Executive: Dr. Gunter reported that the Executive Committee had met to review all course descriptions for semester conversion and had made some minor changes. The revised course descriptions were turned into the Dean's office.

Course Syllabi: Dr. Gunter urged the faculty members to begin working on their assigned course syllabi. If for some reason the faculty member is unaware of which syllabi were assigned, Dr. Gunter will re-send the assignments as well as the content requirements.

Diversity Planning Process: Dr. Gunter discussed the diversity recommendations university-wide and how these can be revised and implemented for the department. Other areas of interest include various activities, review processes, and ways of addressing issues within the department. Dr. Gunter suggested that the Program Curriculum and Diversity Committee review these recommendations and consider ways to implement them within the department.

College of Education's Multicultural Resources: A copy of the COE's Multicultural Resources was passed around during the faculty meeting. The objective of this resource is "...to address multicultural issues and attempt to provide direction in recognizing and validating cultural differences for the purpose of improving the educational environment for all students." Dr. Gunter requested that anyone who would like a copy, sign his/her name on the cover sheet, and copies will be made and distributed.

College of Education's Core Curriculum Survey, Fall 1997: Again, a copy of the COE's Core Curriculum Survey, Fall 1997, will be copied and distributed to the faculty members. Dr. Gunter asked that this survey be reviewed carefully and comments be submitted to him in regards to content.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders Faculty Meeting, January 5, 1998

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Carol Barnett, Bob Campbell, Tish Consolini, Juliann Woods Cripe, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Bob Hull, Karla Hull, Bob Johnston, Kathy Kennedy, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Marsha Reed, Tom Robinson, Fran Smith, Shirley Thompson, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, Marti Venn, Howard Wilson and Sue Worth.

Old Business:

Course Syllabi: Dr. Gunter reminded the faculty members that the course syllabi for semester conversion programs are due January 13, 1998.

College & University Forum: Dr. Gunter announced that the College and University Forum will be held on January 30, 1998, at Macon beginning at 10 a.m. Since the State Improvement Grant will be on the agenda, and the Department of Education will pay travel expenses, Dr. Gunter urged anyone who could attend to please do so. Professionals from various programs throughout the state will also be in attendance and discussion on the status of semester conversion will be held. In addition to this, various organizations such as TED and CASE will be represented, and various business items may be discussed. Dr. Gunter asked anyone interested to please notify him as soon as possible.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders Faculty Meeting, April 10, 1998

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Carol Barnett, Lila Carson, Bob Campbell, Patti Campbell, Juliann Woods Cripe, Les Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Bob Johnston, Kathy Kennedy, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Marsha Reed, Tom Robinson, Ruth Stonestreet, Shirley Thompson, Dick Uhlir, Forrest Umberger, Marti Venn, Howard Wilson and Sue Worth.

Departmental Committee Reports:

Executive: Dr. Gunter thanked the faculty members for all their hard work during the winter 1998 quarter and urged faculty advisors to be patient and supportive with the upcoming advising for fall semester. Drs. Gunter, Lee, and Uhlir went to Albany yesterday to attend a P-16 Council Meeting which featured a lecture given by John Goodlad. Dr. Gunter noted that the department, with its major program revisions which will be implemented at semester conversion, was right on track with current needs for education reform in all three areas of concern; 5 year programs, certification-only programs, and advanced degree programs. Dr. Uhlir recommended the faculty members read John Goodlad's latest book which is entitled In Praise of Education.

Course Syllabi Update: Drs. Stonestreet and Lee reported that the semester course syllabi were reviewed and should be returned for some minor revisions within the next few weeks. The only problem noted by the committee was that they saw no need for listing both outcomes and objectives.

 

Excerpt from: Valdosta State University, Minutes of Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders Faculty Meeting, August 12, 1998

Faculty present: Diane Andrew, Alice Andrews, Lora Backes, Carol Barnett, Lila Carson, Bob Campbell, Patti Campbell, Tish Consolini, Les Dalton, Russ Deavours, Tanya Enloe, Phil Gunter, Karla Hull, Bob Hull, Bob Johnston, Kathy Kennedy, Julie Lee, Beth Mercer, Corine Myers-Jennings, Tom Reed, Tom Robinson, Fran Smith, Ruth Stonestreet, Shirley Thompson, F. D. Toth, Dick Uhlir, Marti Venn, Howard Wilson and Sue Worth.

The meeting was called to order at 11:15 a.m. with Dr. Gunter presiding.

Welcome to Faculty: Dr. Gunter welcomed all the faculty members back, congratulated Dr. Bob Hull on the successful defense of his doctoral dissertation, and introduced Ms. Sarah Brunston who is replacing Renee Newman as Senior Secretary for the Speech and Hearing Clinic.

Dean Toth came by to start the meeting off by emphasizing that this is a year of refinement. He stressed that each department will need to continue creating better programs in teacher preparation as well as determining if the students we graduate will be able to demonstrate that they are effective teachers. Dean Toth discussed his desire to keep the COE faculty members better informed across departments as well as the creation of a small group composed of a representative from each department within the COE. These representatives will be elected from each department and will serve for a designated length of time before rotation to another faculty member. The intent is for every faculty member to have the opportunity to personally represent the department and voice concerns directly to the Dean. In the area of graduate admissions, Dean Toth stated his intention to continue supporting those eligible graduate admission applicants who graduate from our undergraduate programs.

Course Syllabi: Copies of the semester course syllabi are on file in the department office. Further refinements will be made throughout the academic year.

CEC/NCATE: Dr. Gunter announced that the Council for Exceptional Children's (CEC's) framework for non-categorical programs is directly reflected in the department's curricular changes which have been implemented in the special education mild and severe disabilities programs fall semester 1998 in lieu of the categorical programs of mental retardation, learning disabilities and behavior disorders which have been offered in the past.

 

 

 

In addition to the above activities of the department as a whole, curriculum committees were established and ten faculty were assigned to work on the programs included for this CEC review (Mild Disabilities, MR/Severe Disabilities, and Early Childhood Special Education).

That committee met on the following dates regarding topics specified:

Meetings for preparation of CEC folio:

 

Valdosta State University New Course Approval Process