Challenges with Integrated Training
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Subject: [ProfessionalDevelopment 3119] Re: Instructor guidelines and challenges
From: Ward, Kim kward at tacomacc.edu
Date: Fri Feb 27 00:36:33 EST 2009
Hi All, attached are the guidelines we developed. Notice the document is
still in draft form as this is something we are trying out this year. it
seems like we are constantly learning, changing, and exploring new ways
to approach all of this. It is definitely a work in progress. Jackie
asked if there are challenges in implementing I-BEST. For us the answer
is definitely yes. I'll start with just a couple of challenges we
faced, but please feel free to ask about others:
#1 Finding the right match: We joke on our campus that I-BEST is like
an arranged marriage. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. A
team teaching environment can be a difficult place to be, especially if
one person or the other sees the endeavor as the other program's
initiative. You have to find teams who are equally invested in the
program. The team members also have to be open to constructive
criticism, feedback, and open to completely changing the way they are
used to doing things. This isn't the place for the instructor who is
reluctant to speak up when something isn't working nor is it for the
instructor who likes routine and "the predictable".
#2 coordination: Coordination at every level and in every way can be a
challenge. We have I-BEST programs in three different divisions.
Getting instructors together for professional development activities has
been very difficult for us, especially when departments or divisions are
doing last minute hires or folks are still working in industry or have
obligations to teach at another colleges in the area. The state board
has done a great job of providing opportunities for professional
development, and they have been very good. Unfortunately, the workshops
aren't always available when you need them. We have discussed
developing something in-house, but have not been able to coordinate the
time to do it.
At TCC we integrate our I-BEST and traditional college level students.
So, coordinating schedules with the professional technical departments,
arranging for "slots" in certain classes, finding times when you can get
instructors together to meet, etc. etc.
Thanks,
Kim Ward
Tacoma Community College
kward at tacomacc.edu
