Processes (P)

1P9 Determining Student and Faculty Learning Support Needs

Determining student learning needs begins with the review of high school transcripts. Faculty and staff members advise during registration and help to determine student learning needs relative to individual courses (1P5). Western uses placement tests to determine the appropriate placement of students in foreign languages and developmental courses (1P3). Test-outs are available for many first-year courses. Data for developmental course work and its effectiveness are presented in 1R3.

Western identifies faculty needs through a variety of communication channels, including department meetings, the Deans’ Council, meetings of the colleges, the Faculty Senate, focus groups, and information collection mechanisms specific to
the library and to technology needs. Needs are prioritized at various levels within the institution, with decisions made relative to the institution’s strategic goals and available budget. Faculty mentors help new faculty transition to Western and to students.