Faculty Survey Spring 2007 Comments

From CTLpedia

• I am finding it much easier to get classes in teaching online through CAC, where I also teach. In the math department we use myMathLab which is Blackboard based and does not use WebCT. The Blackboard classes (free and available for college credit through a grant) at CAC meet my needs more.
• Donna and Melanie have been a great help for all of us at Red Mountain. Thank you for having them here each week.
• I always look at the emails you send and try to attend when something is of interest and fits into my schedule.
• Many times I want to attend training sessions, etc. that you offer, but not able to do so because of teaching schedule. If you could repeat your offerings at various times, I'd do my best to attend. Thanks for all you do!!
• I believe we need more emphasis on scholarship as part of the teaching and learning experience. Grants also need to be fostered among groups of faculty. How about a scholarship bulletin board?
• I feel that when new programs, workshops, etc are being considered by the CTL, they should be viewed in light of the question "How will this positively impact our students?" Yes, the CTL is to help teachers but that should be for the benefit of the taxpayers who are taking the classes on campus. So, make sure the items being offered have proven track records of transferability and are pedagogically sound.
• I would like to hear more about student support for projects. Some projects are overwhelming and I'm not sure when I can request assistance for the input of large amounts of material or specialized skills I don't have.
• I have a little hesitation asking for help from CTL because I don't know where in the CTL to go. A tour of the facility and staff might be nice sometime. :-) I am technically savvy and don't find it intimidating to try new technology. I would really like to get "under the hood" of WebCT in particular. I am very interested in workshops to develop new pedagogical skills but my perception is that most workshops concentrate on technical skills.
• My case is unique. I am extremely restricted on using CTL, because I am BANNED from doing any teaching activities during my 40 hour regular times, and can't practically use CTL during my 1/2 to 3/4 teaching load times, which are required to be counter-scheduled to my work time. If I choose to take time off from either job to attend CTL activities, I sacrifice my income for those times, because I am not eligible for release time for those types of activities. My weekends are my only free time to get any personal things done and to grade. Maybe CTL can work towards getting the departments to increase the number of resident faculty (instead of maintaining a 1/4 ratio) from the pool of LONG-STANDING adjuncts, rather than continuously hiring from outside the district.
• CTL folks are great!! very helpful and accessible
• Ever Since Brad has been in the CTL I notice a difference in the environment of the CTL. I beleive that I feel so welcomed there because of his gracious manner and demeanor. He is vital to the continued success of the CTL.
• I have taught at 4 different colleges in the District and this is the best resource of any of them. Thank you for doing such a great job AND for striving to do even better, as you are doing with this survey and other feedback opportunities. I am very grateful for the services you provide, not least of which is simply a place for adjuncts to be able to do their jobs without offices.
• Anytime I have a question or concern the CTL is very helpful, I enjoy going into the CTL and working with everyone they are a great bunch of people.
• Please be more cutting edge on technology. As a high school teacher (adjunct at MCC since 1979) I have called to ask about things like Camtasia Studio or ScreenWatch and the person I spoke to was unaware of them.
• I feel like the space in CTL makes for a less inviting area which can be intimidating for approaching faculty. I also am not clear on what individual roles are, so I'm not always clear on who the "go to" person is or what is and is not within the purvue of CTL help options.
• CTL staff does a great job in everything! However,could some workshops be scheduled earlier than 4pm?!
• I like the fact that the CTL is available for us, and I appreciate all the efforts you put into it. I only will add that some CTL faculty are, or seem to be, more willing to provide additional explanation to the workshop participants than others.
• It would helpful to have brief "one idea or skill" training activities or showcases scheduled that would last 20 minutes or less, especially in terms of technology - where one could pop in between classes and get the gist of a new feature, etc.
• No one has personally told me anything about CTL. We adjuncts are the step-children of the community college and are the last to know what is really going on. A meeting at the beginning of the semester would be a big help; explain to us in person how we could benefit from CTL. We are invisible; we come in and teach and then we leave - - - and no one even speaks to us. Make us adjunct people feel more welcome - treat us as professionals.
• Thank you for all your support and innovative ideas!
• CTL has helped me with the use of WebCT and micrograde. They also helped prepare CD labels for accreditation. Always great service!
• The CTL Staff are great. Brad Kincaid has had a very positive and creative impact on the functioning of the CTL
• The CTL is extremely supportive of ALL faculty--a wondeful resource and opportunity for us all at Mesa.
• I benefit tremendously form all you do!
• The CTL at Southern and Dobson is great! Keep up the good work!
• I'm so glad to have it available to new adjunct employees. Very helpful and kind when I ask "silly" questions about technology.
• Donna G. has a gift for teaching and for making anyone learning from her feel important and comfortable and capable.
• You're doing a SUPER job! Thank you for all that you do!!!
• I'm less concerned with pedagogy (the teaching of children) than andragogy (adult learning theory)since I work with adult learners.
• The CTL has been a great resource and support to me for improving my technology skills and effectively incorporating technology components into my courses. CTL personnel are very professional, patient and knowledgeable.
• I feel everyone at the CTL goes out of their way to be helpful and available.
• The CTL people I have worked with have been good, but they are not available when I am usually. The folks are very willing and helpful. Maybe I need to know more about on-line tutorials.
• The CTL staff has made my teaching life much more complete and easy. They do a great job.
• I just found out how great this service was this semester and I have had some good experiences with the training I have taken. Also it is so helpful to be able to use the computers when I need to. I would like to take more classes in the future. Thank you!
• The CTL is an inviting and open environment. Unfortunately, adjuncts live in a separate and unequal universe: conferences, training, etc. have no value to us because nothing we do can "improve our chances" to be hired full-time. Full-timers have reasons/incentives to learn more, do more, achieve more; adjuncts, by contrast, are disposable mercenaries, usually under-appreciated by "upper management" and bypassed during hiring reviews in favor of out-of-state candidates who are blissfully unfamiliar with MCC, its culture, and its student. Hopelessness and despair rarely invigorate teachers who have no professional, career, or financial incentives to continue to "volunteer" their off-the-clock time when, in many cases, they must find additional jobs "off-site" in order to pay the bills and, if they're lucky, find health insurance coverage. Most adjuncts I know don't use CTL because, in this cynical world, CTL can't answer the question, "What's in it for me?" The cafe' program is a noble attempt, but most adjuncts FLEE the campus ASAP because the campus sends them a very clear message: "You are only valuable in the classrom; outside the room, you're nothing, you time is worth nothing, and you have no hope to earn the slightest consideration." In essence, the message to adjuncts is this: "The beatings will continue until morale improves." In spite of this sad reality, the staff at CTL are upbeat, positive, encouraging, and ALWAYS willing to help. They represent an intellectual oasis in a desert of apathy, indifference, and disdain toward adjuncts.
• Thanks. I appreciate CTL's availability and quick email responses.
• The CTL staff is really friendly and helpful.
• At a National Professional Association meeting I heard a great number of people talk about the CTL (sic) on their campuses. The MCC CTL is clearly more supportive, innovation & comprehensive than in the norm. I didn't realize how "spoiled" we are with our CTL - and our wonderful CTL people. Perhaps a bit more "tooting your own horn" would be good. You certainly deserve it. Thanks for all that you do!!
• I the CTL is an excellent resource for the college that should receive the full support of faculty and administration.
• It would be nice if the CTL would be open during breaks & off-session times. Those are the only times I have a chance to spend time. Unfortunately, the college tends to just shut down during those times & my work opportunity is lost.
• You all at the CTL are doing an outstanding job!
• The emails advertising your classes are very helpful. I have never taken a class, but if I ever get to, I will probably respond to the email invitations. Thanks for all of your efforts.
• I learn a lot at the CTL but unless I immediately apply it a certain percentage of the learning is lost particularly with technology. I like the workshops where you can apply what you are learning while learning it in a way that is directly applicable to your needs.
• Glad you're here to help me get un-stuck.
• CTL is awesome. Staff is amazing and always friendly and helpful. I have learned a lot this semester. Thanks
• I have seen the technology evolve over the past several years, and the skill level required to use these tools effectively come down. The biggest obstacle was that it is a lot of information if attempted all at once. The word needs to get out that a non-net course development is a multi semester process, and you can pick up the most effective tools immediately and the rest as needed.
• Ken Costello was always too busy. The video editing equipment was not working last time I tried. I miss Jim Tipton--he was always patient and helpful Bob Farwell is awesome. Very helpful and knowledgeable.
• Fantastic resource at MCC, particularly during the last two years. Brad's leadership has been impressive.
• As I understand it, the mission of the CTL is to help faculty to learn to do stuff for themselves. That works for those of us that like to work with technology. A split is developing between teaching with tech and building the tech. Any chance we'll see some builders in the future?
• I really value the "point of use" face-to-face instruction I receive from CTL. Due to my work schedule as primarily an evening adjunct, and my non-district work, getting to campus during the day is a challenge.
• This is an incredibly valuable resource and the people are wonderful! They are knowledgeable, accessible, friendly, and PATIENT! I love this place and the people who work there! Thank you all!
• Keep up the good work
• The CTL does an excellent job supporting faculty, and I only wish that I could use the facility more. I'm hoping to spend time there this summer!
• You folks really are very good at what you do, and I appreciate your efforts. If I had more time I would definitely take more advantage of your opportunities.
• The staff at the CTL are extremely helpful and accessible. I so much appreciate especially help with WebCT. Sometimes the scheduled workshops conflict with my classes, but that can't be helped. Keep up the good work - you are such an asset to us!
• As far as I can tell, CTL is a wonderful resource with a number of workshops and opportunities that I would like to use. However, as a Ph.D. student at ASU, leader of the graduate student government at ASU and instructor of 3 courses at Red Mtn, my schedule does not permit it. The only times I really have available are evenings, and even those are less than available... I *do* have a husband who wants some time, too. While I have not investigated online information from CTL, that may be the best place for those of us who are entirely too busy to come to stuff during the regular work day to use CTL's services. (ASU's CLTE is beginning to have more on-line teaching modules, which are quite helpful!)
• Donna is amazing!!!!
• I love that you're so willing to continue to evaluate your offerings and approaches. The CTL is wonderful and I know I'll always get the best help possible when I come to you.
• Both Donna Gaudet and Ken Costello have been invaluable in helping me. They are worth their weight in gold!!!
• I can get access to info without going to CTL.
• I am impressed with the CTL offerings and would really appreciate more time to follow up with many of the workshops and opps. you publicize. In addition to teaching, for my professional state licensure i must complete 40 hours every two years of professional growth. This of course takes priority. I am a one faculty program with many preps and admin duties. re-assigned time has proven helpful in the past. without it, it seems always impossible to schedule the time for extras.
• I appreciate the work of the CTL staff. I confess I would attend the workshops if I had available time. Since I don't have much time left, I would make an effort if I was required to attend. Maybe the college could find better ways and advertise and promote the workshops.
• Ctl is a wonderful resource for adjunct faculty members to work, learn, and grow.
• Before enumerating my suggestions, I'd like to state how much I value the CTL, its services and staff. Sheryl, in particular, never fails to make visitors feel welcome. Her attention to maintaining a bottomless candy dish is much appreciated. Suggestions: 1) It would help me to know the regularly scheduled availability of CTL staff for "Just-in-Time" consults. In addition, posting the name of the CTL staff member on duty for walk-in help could prove valuable. 2) I frequently visit the CTL during the noon hour, and I've noticed CTL staff eating lunch together at a conference table. Occasionally, I've needed help but hesitated to interrupt the lunch-time gathering. It would be helpful to know the accessibility expectations during your together time. 3) Additionally, when I'm trying to concentrate on computer tasks at the CTL, I have been distracted by long, drawn-out staff interpersonal interactions. For example, loud conversations focusing on where one should go to get her hair cut detracts from the professional "helping" atmosphere of the facility.
• I just would like to see the same workshops you are offering right now to be offered at the end of the semester. Something like you did with the MOSAIC program, a workshop I'm looking forward to atttend. Other than that, I think that you all guys are doing a terrific job! Thank you. Margarita Balentine Spanish Adjunct Instructor
• You are all doing a great job! I especially liked the addition of an adjunct faculty liaison this year. Her newsletters and updates have been helpful. I always feel comfortable coming in and asking for help from the CTL staff, and I am always impressed at the depth of your knowledge, and generosity with your time. Thank you!
• For those who teach starting at 7:10 p.m. the CTL is inaccessible. Also I enjoy taking the classes but we get a stipend only if it's during our busiest times... the semesters we're teaching. I took three classes during the summer between my teaching schedule yet no stipend was available. Classes are excellent, well-taught, and helpful. It's a shame.
• I have worked with Melanie for years now; she helps me to periodically update my web pages. She is always extremely helpful, kind, and generous with her time. Thank you, Melanie, and to all the other staff members who have assisted me in the past.
• The CTL takes better care adjuncts than our own department. It's wonderful to have everything available at our fingertips. The CTL is a breath of fresh air during a sometimes stressful day.
• I have enjoyed working with CTL staff re technology resources. Their assistance has been very beneficial in helping me create resources for use with instruction. I have been somewhat frustrated in working with Instruction Design assistance. Efforts to design specific technology based instruction tools based on sound pedagogy have not yielded successful collaboration. It may be that time constraints and unrealistic expectations are the primary cause. Since I have fared well with MCLI assistance in developing more pedagogically sound instruction approaches. Perhaps the CTL could consider offering workshops specifically on best instructional design practices? Without a doubt the CTL continues to offer exceptional and timely opportunities for our faculty and staff. Thank you for continuing to serve and for involving us in your continuous improvement efforts.
• The calendar is the only thing that keeps me from using more of the resources that come available in the CTL.
• Keep up the good work! Please schedule workshops at different times on different days.
• Thank you for providing this resource.
• Keep up the good work!
• CTL staff, management and faculty have been available to meet all my needs. It has always been in a very positive manner. I have learned tremendously from them. Bertha Sepulveda
• Providing a variety of times for courses is helpful. Perhaps scheduling mini-courses using hour blocks rather that 2 hour blocks would support attendance. Just a thought - we are all so busy with the "next thing" its hard to give 2 back to back hours sometimes. I appreciate the continued availability of the staff to meet with me one-on-one. THANKS for all you do!
• the CTL is a fantastic service/resource!
• Integrating new skills almost always requires support. CTL staff teach and support in a very patient manner and are readily available. I am proud to be able to teach in a school with such a resource.
• The CTL has become an area on the campus that fosters professionalism and inclusiveness. the staff are people who, in spite of a heavy workload are always helpful and available for consultation. The CTL is one of the few things MCC has gotten right in the last two years. The leadership of the director, Brad Kincaid, serves as an excellent example of how bright, technologically savvy faculty can make it easier for ALL the faculty to bring MCC through the challenges of the higher education and community service in the 21st century. resulted in
• ¡Good help!
• Have some workshops at Red Mountain. Check teacher's schedules for better attendance. Thanks.
• thank you for all your effort, CTL staff;-D
• It sounds like there are on-going opportunities to use CTL on an ad hoc basis. Perhaps an open house each semester to highlight these? Thanks for your hard work!!!
• I need to have Macintosh computers, so I would like to see more Macintosh computers and software programs for Macintosh.
• CTL is just awesome. i have taught and teach at other various community colleges and ctl does provide what mostly others dont. for example being able to interact with other faculty and staff that is very helpful and find out some more the ins and outs of the college. Obviously the use of computers and resources are helpful but the more important thing are the people at CTL who are really nice, accommodating, and overall really helpful. i just feel bad at times that some faculty members act a bit too brash at people at ctl. either way, thanks!
• FPLC program is innovative and exceptionally valuable individually and to the growth of scholastic culture. Brad's work has been exceptional!
• I've used CTL for technology training, and wasn't aware of the pedagogical activities. The CTL staff are great, and the workshops effective. However, I think I'd retain more with one-on-one follow-ups to workshops that are part of the sign-up for the workshop. Otherwise, I tend not to want to "bother" anyone with stuff they'd already taught me. The FPLC is also terrific, especially in that it allows me to meet and interact with faculty and staff from outside my department, something we need a lot more of at MCC, I think.
• It seems as if the CTL gives the same classes over and over again, so that after I've taken them, I have less need for the CTL.
• My first year at MCC has been great. Hopefully, I will return to MCC in the fall of 2007.
• As an Adjunct who teaches in the evening, most of the CTL offerings are simply at times I am not on campus. (In fact, many seem to be at 8am and 3pm, the two times I am obliged to be off campus, picking up my children at school.) I realize that CTL "night school" is probably beyond your funding, but without it, I cannot take advantage of your services.
• I enjoy all the staff and training I have received at the CTL. Peggy Johnson, James, Melanie, and the rest of the staff are always so helpful and eager to assist you. I just wish for two things: (1) More availability in the mid-morning hours for workshops (2) A second location for workshops for us "midtown" people outside of Mesa! Thank you for listening.
• I am new faculty and plan to use CTL more once I get settled in my position. I think your resources and availability are excellent.
• I love the CTL and would like to attend more workshops and learn more about technology, but I seem to be really busy trying to bring in enough income. I think I need to try to take advantage of CAFE credits. (Isn't that the compensation for professional development time in workshops?)
• I see the CTL as a "card up my sleeve" although I don't use it as often as I would like, knowing that it is there and "has my back" helps me to do my job more confidently.