The College of Applied Science and Technology values high quality teaching that promotes long-lasting, meaningful learning on the part of the students enrolled in its academic programs. As a result of such teaching and learning, it is the College's hope that graduates of CAST programs subsequently involve themselves in career positions and community activism that empower them to solve real-world problems.
Engaging in high quality teaching infers simultaneous involvement in high quality research and service pursuits. Realizations arrived at in one context inform and inspire activity in the others. When this intertwining of teaching, research, and service occurs most fully and completely, the mission of the College is best accomplished.
The college recognizes the importance of systematically designed and conducted assessment of course and program offerings; faculty teaching abilities; student learning; and alumni career experiences. CAST faculty members are encouraged to utilize the services of the University Assessment Office (UAO) and the Center for the Advancement of Teaching for direction and advice on such matters.
The college is in the process of establishing a relationship with the Individual Development and Educational Assessment (IDEA) Center for purposes of assessing student perceptions of classroom teaching performance, as well as course objectives and activities. All departments within CAST are encouraged to adopt the IDEA Student Ratings System. Those wanting more information about recent use of the IDEA Student Ratings System within CAST should contact Associate Dean Jeff Wood.
The primary purpose of the Presentation Travel Grant Program is to encourage and reward the scholarly activities of CAST faculty. It is anticipated that faculty will make these presentations and turn them into refereed publications which are supported by the CAST Publication Incentive Program. The CAST Research Council will evaluate applications for up to $200 in travel funds to present the results of research and instructional activities at conferences/conventions.
