Field, Clinical, and Research Supervision
In addition to the 3-credit release for research responsibilities, faculty who assist the unit with significant administrative obligations are eligible to receive course release. Generally, unit heads and directors receive a 2-course release each semester. Program and course coordinators receive a one-course release for the year. Other activities that might be eligible for course release are major accreditation duties, grant coordination, and major governance duties.
Part-Time Faculty
Through the years the College has developed a stable corps of highly qualified part time faculty. Several hold the doctorate, many return every semester, and all have successfully held or currently hold positions as teachers, administrators, central office personnel, consultants, and legal counsel. This table shows the ratio of adjunct to regular faculty, academic degrees, and percentage of credit hours taught. In 2004-05, full time faculty taught approximately 76% of credit hours generated in the unit. (For further details, refer to faculty records in the on-site exhibit room.)
Administrative/Professional Staff and Office Support Staff
All professional staff hold the master's degree and have successful experience in P-12 schools or higher education. Their average longevity within the unit is in the range of eight years. Professional and support staff meet regularly with unit heads and the Dean of the College to improve operations or discuss matters of concern. All personnel in the College, including professional staff and support staff, hold membership in the College Assembly and participate in discussions and decisions affecting unit operations.
In 2002, the unit undertook a study of work systems and procedures. Clerical positions were subsequently restructured to align with the six administrative units, and eight positions were upgraded. Five part-time field placement coordinator positions were consolidated into three full time positions. Job descriptions were written or updated for every function. As faculty numbers have increased, so too have professional and office staff numbers. (For further details on professional and support staff, refer to Unit Staff).
Professional Development
The unit and university fully support training and funding for professional development of faculty, professional staff, and office support staff. Notable opportunities are available through the Pew Faculty Teaching and Learning Center, the Office of Research and Development, the Padnos Center for International Affairs, the Grand Valley Excellence Series, technology training, and annual professional development funding from the College.
Unit Funding of Professional Development
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