MINUTES of NPIC Subcommittee of UCF

October 23, 2003

Members present:

L. Bier, R. Eldridge, C. Novasad, W. O'Brien (Chair), J. Sullivan, C. Wieder (Recorder)

Invited guests: Lynn Kohrn, Rick Riccardi of the Records/Registrar's Office

I. Discussion of Special Topics course listings with L. Kohrn and R. Riccardi.

Limitations of the Banner computing system in listing courses in the Semester Schedule/Listing of Courses were noted. The system is, however, capable of having a separate section of this publication devoted to the listing of Special Topics courses, containing course titles and descriptions. This section of the Schedule/Listing could also have a header defining what Special Topics courses are. NPIC will be working on drafting this header.

Implications for academic advisement in connection with Special Topics courses were also discussed, as well as potential complications affecting students' CPRs, transcripts, and graduation checking.

II. Logging of Special Topics courses (A case of cross-listing course descriptions)

Questions arose regarding an Urban Studies Special Topics proposal that entailed cross listing the course with an existing course offering in another department. NPIC will be inquiring regarding the intent of the Urban Studies Dept. in proposing this course, and also inquiring of the UCF Steering Cte. as to whether this practice is consistent with the intent of Special Topics offerings.

III. Special Topics course proposal approval procedure (Signature sheet)

[Follow up on the 10-16-03 UCF general meeting discussion.]

There was discussion regarding the question of the flow of Special Topics course proposals: What is the role of NPIC in these cases - that of "monitoring," or merely logging, or a more substantive review? Discussion led to a motion that passed 5-1, and will be offered in the UCF general meeting in an attempt to clarify this matter. (See below)

MOTION:

That all Special Topics course proposals come directly to NPIC for the initial UCF review.