Introductory Biology Redesign

Quick FactsState University of NY, Canton: Four and two-

year college for technology, health, management and public service. Twelve majors leading to bachelor degrees23 programs leading to associate degrees12 programs leading to one-year certificates.

Total Student Population2600

Intro Bio RedesignFall Enrollment: 240Replacement Model

TimelineFall 07

Began planningSpring 08

Finalize and submit grant proposalSummer 08

Awarded grantAHHHHHHH!!!

Fall 08Redesign team meets regularly Building of redesign

Spring 09Pilot Implementation of redesign

Fall 09Full Implementation Scheduled

Initial PlanningState University of New York Initiative

Fall 07 $40,000 Grant AwardActing Provost provided the initial impetus.

Trio of biology instructors formed redesign team.

Provided updates to both school and department throughout the process.

Sought assistance and assurances from all members of the campus community who would be directly or indirectly affected by the redesign.

Student ReactionsDevelopmental/Remedial

All students have either failed science in high school or are non-traditional students with low science aptitude.

ReactionsBest described as mixed.Anecdotally

Mostly positive to online learning environment. Some problems with student access to computers. Some resistance from older, non-traditional students.

ResultsToo early to tell!

Faculty Development and Training

Development of Online Learning Environment

InstructorLearning to build online learning modulesDevelopment of Active Learning Activities

Course AdministratorShifting Job RoleUncertainty of job

Support