Processes (P)

4P4 Training and Developing Employees and Reinforcing Training

Western encourages faculty, staff, and administration to attend professional meetings and to pursue professional development (4C4). Chairs encourage faculty to attend local, state, and national professional meetings. Faculty and exempt staff receive support to travel to conferences related to research and pedagogy. Faculty and exempt staff have the opportunity to apply for sabbatical leave for professional development. Non-exempt staff travel to work-related conferences and workshops and receive support from work units.

Western uses technology and software to help with staff training needs. Various training methodologies include teleconferences, video-conferencing, web technology, and external expertise.

Employees are encouraged to further their education and may schedule up to three credits of coursework during regular working hours, with the approval of the immediate supervisor. Full-time, regular employees are eligible for a tuition waiver for the first three credit hours each semester. After the first three credit hours, employees pay $5 per credit hour up to a maximum of $45 (spring and fall) and $25 (summer). Undergraduate coursework may be for any degree program offered by the University.

Administrators attend many national meetings and discipline-specific conferences. They participate in state planning, policy, and legislative decisions related to higher education.