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Minutes,
Roundtable Discussion for QEP
Student Roundtable
August 25, 2004, 8:30 a.m.
Thomas Russell Library, Room 302
Present:
(Students) Tasha Adams, Jerry Adamson, Mary Catherine Carter,
Dustin Colburn, John Cunningham, Posha Doss, Sandra Duck,
Dorinda Elmore, Adryan Fennie, Justin Goff, Teela Geoffer, Tito
Johnson, Gabriel Major, Courtney Meadows, Sherry Pike, Josefina
Ray, Jonathan Roque, William Slovik, Veronica Trimble, Pavis Van
Horn, Tanya Welcher; (Employees) Laura Brown, Barbara Anne
Spears
Mrs. Spears met with students in Laura Brown’s English 093 class
to discuss the QEP and improvements to developmental courses.
Students reported that they were not unhappy to be placed in
developmental courses. Two actually reported that they had been
placed in 101 and chose to be moved into 093. One of these
students reported that she was overwhelmed by 101 and believes
that the COMPASS test placed her there incorrectly as she was
unprepared to write an eight-page essay.
Students generally agreed that the most important function of a
developmental course is to provide refresher information. “They
should go over what we need,” one said, explaining that the
courses must provide a basis for success in future classes.
There were six students in the class who reported that they had
been out of high school for three years or more. These returning
adult students discussed the need to regain information lost
during their years away from a classroom.
Several students who are also enrolled in developmental math
classes discussed the new I Can Learn lab and system of
teaching. All reported that they like the self-paced learning,
the one-on-one time with the teacher, and the chance to repeat
material as needed or finish some areas quickly. However,
students did not like the lab set-up. They said that with
computer monitors hidden beneath the work area, they could not
see the monitor while also using the notebook and workbook,
which cover the monitor. All reported that this situation is
difficult and frustrating. Students also complained about cost.
One student noted that if she is paying tuition for the class
plus $130 for the license, she should not have to buy her own
headphones – the College should provide these. Students noted
that even though they are told that they can progress rapidly
through the course, they often cannot afford to enroll in
another. One student said that she was placed in Math 091 even
though she missed placement in 092 by only two questions. She is
now almost finished with 091 and resents having to pay another
$130 to complete 092 when 091 has taught her so little. She used
very strong language in expressing this complaint.
Students who are enrolled in developmental English found other
courses overwhelming. They did not believe they had the skills
or background to succeed in other courses before completing the
developmental course. One student mentioned Art Appreciation;
another mentioned Medical Terminology. Both said these courses
are too difficult and move too quickly for students who are in
developmental English.
One student also mentioned that child care on campus is greatly
needed.
Students agreed that workshops on study skills, time management,
note taking, etc. would be helpful.
Mrs. Spears encouraged students to visit her in her office or
write down thoughts and suggestions and leave them in her box.
With no further discussion, the meeting adjourned at 9:05 a.m.
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