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Origin of Curriculum Design Studio

In June 2000, Metro's Vice President of Education Services (ES) chartered a team called the Curriculum System Initiative.  The team was comprised of nine faculty, each from a different discipline area, and two ES deans.  The team's purpose was to improve student learning through the development of a sustainable system for curriculum design and delivery.  During the year-long endeavor, the team accomplished four charter guidelines:

  1. Explore and define the philosophical approach to MCC curriculum development
  2. Identify and define criteria for a successful system of curriculum development
  3. Identify current practices for curriculum development and evaluate against criteria
  4. Define an overall system for curriculum development, maintenance, and delivery.

The team's final recommendation for a sustainable curriculum system would best be accomplished by having a full-time faculty member serve as a curriculum coordinator.  (See following mission and purpose.)  Faculty would be on a full-time release from teaching and serve as coordinator for at least a two-year period.  The first coordinator, Lynn Bradman, served as the first coordinator until May 2004.  John McGaha was the coordinator until May 2006.  Cindy Catherwood is the current coordinator.

Curriculum Design Studio Mission and Purpose

The Curriculum Design Studio's mission is to provide and maintain a system for development and delivery of curriculum at Metropolitan Community College (MCC).

  • Work closely with faculty in the area of curriculum design,  development, delivery, and maintenance
  • Provide dynamic resources and assistance to faculty via a robust website
  • Keep faculty informed of MCC curriculum changes and current issues related to curriculum via an electronic newsletter
  • Assist in the instruction and coordination of professional development as part of the IFEX team
  • Provide technical assistance to faculty working on curriculum development including outcomes assessment

MCC Curriculum Philosophy

  • Maintain and improve the learning process for the whole college community
  • Establish flexible, reflective practices that review and improve curriculum as a continuous improvement process
  • Encourage faculty-driven innovation and collaborative practices

MCC Mission

Our mission at Metropolitan Community College is to serve our community with distinction. We are a role model in higher education. We will deliver:

  • Quality learning opportunities.
  • Lifelong educational programs.
  • Services that support personal and professional enrichment and training.
  • Programs and services which stimulate economic and workforce development.
  • Courses and programs which provide a transferable path to baccalaureate institutions.
  • Career/vocational education supporting business and economic partnerships.
  • A positive learning environment that promotes student success.


 

About CDS | Contact CDS | FAQ | Search |                                                                                                             Last Update: 09/23/2009