introduction: division and division units: natural sciences · introduction: division and division...

Introduction: Division and Division Units: Natural Sciences

DIVISION Natural Sciences Units: Agriculture, RVT, Biology, Physics & Engineering

Dean Matthew Judd Units: Histotechnician, Chemistry, Earth Sciences & Astronomy

E-mail / Extension [email protected] / 909-274-4711 Units: Mathematics & Computer Sciences, Marc & T-Marc

I. Institutional Mission

The mission of Mt. San Antonio College is to support all students in achieving their full educational potential in an environment of academic excellence.

II. Division Mission

Enter your Division Mission Statement here.

III. College Themes and Goals

SectionOne: Where We Are—An Analysis and Summary of 2015-16

IV. Planning Context: Division Goals

The following table contains goals as noted in SectionTwo - of last year's PIE that were to guide your 2015-16 year. Note:You cannot edit this section. You may revise, add new goals or remove goals that are no longer relevant as appropriate for planning for 2016-17 and 2017-18 in SectionTwo.

Division Goal Name Division Goal College Theme

Culture of Assessment 1. Continue to encourage and support a culture of assessment across the Division, encouraging data driven decisions that result in changes in instruction A: Academic Excellence -

Customer Service 2. Provide excellent “customer service” to students, faculty, and staff – continue to be the “last stop” for those seeking help D: Cooperation/Collaboration -

Support for Events

3. Support department, campus, and community events such as, Debbie Boroch Science Day, Caduceus Club Health Professions Conference, Kepler Scholarship Program, Farm Day, Robotics Team, and other events sponsored by one or more departments within the Division

B: Access and Success -

Manage Resources

4. Effectively manage resources within the Division, such as Wildlife Sanctuary, Agriculture Farm, Meek Museum, Redinger Exploration Center, Randall Planetarium, Observatory Dome, Ag Literacy Trail, and develop program to recycle 100% of the College’s green waste and manure

C: Secure Resources -

STEM Center5. Increase student success and achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses, particularly for underrepresented students, by creating and staffing a STEM center

C: Secure Resources -

Enrollment Management 6. Continue to respond to student needs for courses within the Division through targeted growth and effective enrollment management B: Access and Success -

Cutting Edge 7. Develop, support, and implement innovative programs for students utilizing cutting edge equipment and technology A: Academic Excellence -

Undergraduate Research 8. Support undergraduate research across the Division D: Cooperation/Collaboration -

V. Notable Achievements

Enter a brief analysis of your Division's successes for the 2015-16 year in the field below followed by a listing , by theme, of the Notable Achievements. This provides opportunity to highlight your Division's proudest moments for this year. Text boxes will expand as needed. Add rows (+), delete rows (-).

Roll-Over to see Achievement example

Faculty and students from Robotics, Turf Teams, Livestock and Horse Show Teams were recognized for their outstanding achievements. One of our Horticulture students won the City of Los Angeles Street Median Design contest. The second year of the NSF Mt. SAC STEM Teacher Preparation grant was successful. Three NSF grants, Supporting and Advancing Geoscience Education in Two-Year Colleges (SAGE 2YC), GP EXTRA, and Geodosy Curriculum for the 21st Century were awarded. Two faculty members earned tenure and eight new full-time faculty members will begin teaching in fall. Our faculty and staff were recognized as Educators of Distinction, awarded the Eternal Flame, honored as Outstanding Classified Staff, and received the Academic Senate 10+1 award. Three new degrees were proposed from plant and animal science to public health. Students in 99 courses throughout the Division were provided instruction, support, and access to research. Thousands of students, faculty, staff, and community members attended events hosted by the division including viewing planetarium shows, touring the Wildlife Sanctuary, observing the night sky, and visiting the Meek Collection. The STEM Center offered support services to students enrolled in science, mathematics, and engineering courses. Over 200

a. Narrative Summary students visit the STEM Center each day. The departments in our division hosted events for students and the community: Horticulture Career Night, Fall into Agriculture, Farm Day (over 1,000 visitors), Caduceus Club Health Professions Conference (859 attendees), Earth Week activities (480 students attended multiple events), Pre-Health Careers Institute, Health Careers Outreach Day for High School Students (300 high school students attended), Bureau of Land Management Youth Summit (350 attendees), Family Science Day (Mole Day), Kepler Scholarship Program, and Astronomy Observing Nights in the Mt. SAC Observatory. Ag faculty partnered with local high school Ag programs to provide livestock for Future Farmers of America (FFA) programs and provided judges for Career Development Night. Earth Sciences professors volunteered as Visiting Geologists in 2nd and 5th grade classes. Over 3,000 students utilized the Planetarium during class time and 141 public planetarium shows were offered. 12,000 Mt. SAC students and community members toured the Wildlife Sanctuary. The Meek Collection and The Redinger Science Exploration Center in Building 61 attracted over 5,000 visitors. The Debbie Boroch Science Day was attended by 205 students and their families and was supported by 130 campus volunteers.

Notable Achievement Theme Student Success

+

Turf Teams placed 1st and 3rd at the STMA National Student Competition; Livestock Show Teams bred and raised championship sheep and cattle; Horse Show Team won high point team at the Cal Poly show with two students competing in semi-finals; Horticulture student Jacqueline Ford won the City of Los Angeles Street Median Design contest; a chemistry student was awarded the Orange County American Chemical Society (ACS) Outstanding Student award; the Robotics team competed in three national competitions.

-

Notable Achievement Theme Faculty Success

+

Chris Briggs and Todd Clements were awarded tenure. Karyn Kakiba-Russell and Charles Newman were honored as Educators of Distinction; Cindy Shannon was awarded the Eternal Flame; Carmen Rexach was appointed to a national community college task force for pre-professional students and was named the national liaison for the American Association of Schools of Osteopathic Medicine; Kamran Golestaneh received the Academic Senate 10+1 award for his work on Sustainability; faculty across the Division were acknowledged by transfer students as being a positive influence and motivator in their transfer success; Tania Anders, Mark Boryta, David Mrofka, and Becca Walker presented at the Geological Society of America’s Annual Meeting; Mark Boryta and Robert Nelson co-authored a paper with two Mt. San Antonio College students included as co-authors; they co-authored a second paper featuring the research conducted at Mt. San Antonio College with our students; Betsy Lawlor presented at the Society for California Archaeology Conference; Sherry Schmidt spoke at the Audobon Society.

-

Notable Achievement Theme Staffing

+

Our Chemistry Laboratory Technician was honored with the Outstanding Classified Staff award; the NSD office hired a new Administrative Assistant IV and Administrative Assistant III and a new Administrative Assistant II was hired for the Mathematics Department; the half-time Biology Department laboratory technician position was expanded to full-time; the Chemistry Department half-time laboratory technician position is in the hiring process; a Program Coordinator for the STEM Center is in the queue. Eight new faculty members were hired in Horticulture, Health, Non-majors Biology, Anthropology, Chemistry (2), Mathematics (2); new one-year temporary position in Biology is in the queue; a failed search in Animal Science and Registered Veterinary Technology will be opened again.

-

Notable Achievement Theme Facilities

+ Construction has begun on the repair of the sink-hole in the Wildlife Sanctuary. Project managers have been assigned to the STEM Center renovation and the humidifier project for the Meek Museum. -

Notable Achievement Theme Funding

+

Over $700,000 in grants from the National Science Foundation were awarded across the Division to support students and instruction. The Natural Sciences Division was allocated over $258,000 for instructional equipment. This was used to update laboratory technology across the curriculum, increase hands-on instruction, and improve operations. These resources had a significant impact on instruction ranging from Chemistry students identifying unknown compounds through the use of refractometers to a truck to conduct field studies with students in Earth Sciences and Biological Sciences. An additional $99,896 was secured from the Perkins Grant to update laboratory technology specific to the Agriculture Department, including spray equipment, cattle chutes, surgical laser, and climbing saddles; this provided students with hands-on experience with updated equipment and improved safety. The Histotechnician program received $3,604 for tutors to increase student success in the laboratory.

-

Notable Achievement Theme Technology

+ Approximately 120 laptops, 105 desktops, and 10 Macs were replaced across the Division to provide students with updated technology. Approximately 34 new access points for WiFi were installed, in response to student needs and requests, allowing students access to the internet for class projects and independent study. -

Notable Achievement Theme Program Success

+

The Agriculture Department revised 11 courses for C-ID alignment, created two new transfer degrees in Plant Science and Animal Science; the Biology Department created two degree options in Public Health and six new courses to support the degrees; the Chemistry Department developed and submitted a new course, CHEM 9, Chemistry of Everyday Life; Earth Sciences & Astronomy developed and submitted a new course, GEOL 30, Global Climate Change; the Mathematics Department partnered with the Bridge Program and Pathways to provide support and alternative paths to student success; the Mathematics Department continues their cutting edge work in Statways; faculty in the Mathematics Department, continued their work with Basic Skills, developed and implemented Math Placement Test Prep Workshops to help students better understand the placement tests; the Physics & Engineering Department offered Physical Science 9, Physics 6A & 6B, Engineering 50A, and Engineering 7 for the first time; Engineering faculty and Mathematics faculty worked together to reduce the number of units in the introductory calculus sequence in order to meet CCCCO degree requirements; The STEM Center officially opened its’ doors and offered support services to students enrolled in science, mathematics, and engineering courses. Over 200 students visited the STEM Center each day. The Kepler Scholarship Dinner raised over $13,000 to be awarded to deserving Mt. San Antonio College students. About 140 guests were in attendance.

-

Notable Achievement Theme Retention and Completions

+

In 2013-14, the Division grew 5.34% in fall, 22.88% in winter, 3.94% in spring, and 38.01% in summer. In 2014-15, growth was 2.37% in fall, 14.21% in winter, 2.03% in spring, and 5.58% in summer. For winter 2016 growth was 19.97%, for spring 1.76%, and for summer an additional 3.00%. During this same time period, success and retention rates across the Division remained high. In 2013-14, retention rates were 72.17% in fall, 74.29% in winter, and 73.69% in spring. Success rates for this year were 86.61%, 86.66%, and 87.83% for fall, winter, and spring respectively. In 2014-15, retention rates were 72.28% in fall, 72.17% in winter, and 74.29% in spring. Success rates for this year were 86.56%, 86.61%, and 86.66% for fall, winter, and spring respectively. Finally, for this past year 2015-16, retention rates were 72.17% in fall, 72.20% in winter, and 72.28% in spring. Success rates for this year were 86.61%, 86.52%, and 86.56% for fall, winter, and spring respectively. Overall, the Natural Sciences Division has been able to sustain substantial growth, supporting students across our disciplines, while maintaining high quality programs evidenced by our success and retention rates.

-

Notable Achievement Theme Grants

+

The second year of National Science Foundation (NSF) STEM grant, “Mt. SAC STEM Teacher Preparation” was successful with Co-PIs, Charles Newman and Iraj Nejad; Becca Walker and David Mrofka were awarded an NSF grant, Supporting and Advancing Geoscience Education in Two-Year Colleges (SAGE 2YC), Faculty Agents of Change: Supporting and Advancing Geoscience Education in 2-Year Colleges; Becca Walker was also awarded two NSF grants: GP EXTRA: Field Based Professional Development for ESTEM Undergraduates, and Geodosy Curriculum for the 21st Century – Innovative Science for Addressing Societally Critical Issues. Mt. San Antonio College is a partner in the NSF grant Project RAISE (Regional Alliance in STEM Education), which supports Mt. SAC students with research opportunities and transfer support.

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VI. Closing the Loop - Alignment and Progress on College Goals This section serves as a "reporting" function. Describe how your area closes the loop and connects planning to budget allocation and outcomes/results. For example - How did the prioritized college resources connect to your area's outcomes over the past year? What progress has your area made with the resources provided? Please include progress on plans that did not require new resources if applicable.

a. Narrative Summary The Natural Sciences Division was allocated over $258,000 for instructional equipment. This was used to update laboratory technology across the curriculum, increase hands-on instruction, and improve operations. These resources had a significant impact on instruction ranging from Chemistry students identifying unknown compounds through the use of refractometers to a truck to conduct field studies with students in Earth Sciences and Biological Sciences. An additional $99,896 was secured from the Perkins Grant to update laboratory technology specific to the Agriculture Department, expand opportunities for students to use industry standard equipment, increase safety, and improve operations. Additional instructional equipment funds are needed to continue to support students in NSD programs. Eight new faculty members were hired in growth and replacement positions to support students across the curriculum. A half-time biology laboratory technician position was expanded to full-time to support students in the biological sciences. The STEM Center opened and over 700 students each week are supported through services and programs. A program coordinator position for the STEM Center is in the queue to provide student support across the Division. Additional faculty and support staff members are needed to maintain and support growth for student access. Significant progress was made evaluating Student Learning Outcomes, establishing Program Level Outcomes (PLOs), and mapping course level outcomes to PLOs and Institutional Level Outcomes (ILOs). Plans are underway to modify existing facilities in Chemistry, the Farm, the STEM Center, and the Meek. The equipment technology lab in Agriculture will be revitalized to provide a much needed fabrication space for use by students across the Division. Modifications allow for

the ongoing support of students in NSD.

Plan or Activity Student Success

Three faculty FIG projects were funded. As faculty analyze the data they collected, they will report out, use the results, and plan appropriate changes to instruction.

Three FIG projects were completed across the Division. We will work with faculty participating in FIG projects to determine how they would like to report out their results to the Division.

Ongoing Plan

Completion 2016-17

Continue to encourage and support a culture of assessment across the division. The Associate Dean will meet with department chairs and faculty to support data driven decisions that result in changes in instruction.

We are using data to support scheduling decisions in order to better serve students. Once resources are allocated, faculty members identify an outcome related to students served through the resource. Faculty members have made significant progress on identifying and assessing SLOs, developing program level outcomes (PLOs) for each degree and certificate, and mapping courses to PLOs and Institutional Level Outcomes (ILOs).

Ongoing Plan

Completion 2016-17

The STEM Center will continue to plan activities that support student success and retention in all disciplines across the division, particularly students underrepresented in mathematics, science, and engineering.

Students attended workshops on study skills, Battle Plans for Final Exams, Counseling and Transfer Night for STEM majors, pre-registration workshop on Planning for the Hurdles Ahead, and Life Management Skills for STEM majors. STEM students launched Mt. SAC chapters of the Society for Women Engineers and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers from the STEM Center. Students from across the campus participated in the lunch-time Robotics Academy and students and their families attended the 1st Annual Family Robotics Day. The STEM Center staff hosted events for students from ARISE and ASPIRE. High school students toured the STEM Center and received information on the services offered. Faculty members from the Counseling Department attended an information session in the STEM Center.

Ongoing Plan

Completion 2018-19

Plan or Activity Staffing

Our division has experienced substantial growth. Smaller departments have grown by as much as 25%. To sustain this growth, additional faculty are needed in the next three years to continue to serve students. Physics and Engineering need a half-time laboratory technician to support their new engineering curriculum; Chemistry

In response to the growth across the Division, the College has supported eight (8) full-time faculty positions (growth and replacements) in Horticulture, Anthropology, Health, Non-majors Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics. There was a failed search in Registered Veterinary Technology and Animal Science. A one-year full-time temporary faculty position in Non-majors Biology was approved and is in the queue. Additional faculty members are needed to support the ongoing student demand for classes in our Division. In 2013-14, the Division grew 5.34% in fall, 22.88% in winter, 3.94% in spring, and 38.01% in summer. In 2014-15, growth was 2.37% in fall, 14.21% in winter, 2.03% in spring, and 5.58% in summer. For winter 2016 growth was 19.97%, for spring 1.76%, and for summer an additional 3.00%. A program coordinator position has been approved to support students in the STEM Center. This position is in the queue. The STEM Center continues to be supported by faculty on reassigned time.

Ongoing Plan

Completion 2016-17

needs a half-time lab tech position converted to a full-time position to support students and will need a full-time lab tech dedicated to building 7 once the renovations are complete and they offer a full complement of labs in that building; an additional veterinary doctor is needed to expand the RVT program; additional laboratory technicians are needed to support students in the hands-on laboratory classes offered on the farm. The STEM Center needs ongoing faculty leadership provided through reassigned time. A full-time laboratory technician is needed to support activities on a day-to-day basis as well as tutors and student coaches

The half-time Biology laboratory technician position was converted to full-time in order to support students across the curriculum. This past winter Biology grew 22.69%, in spring 1.15%, and in summer an additional 30.56% over last year’s growth. The half-time Chemistry laboratory technician position needs to be expanded in response to their growth. In 2013-14, the Chemistry Department grew 18.66% in fall, 59.87% in winter, 19.41% in spring, and 146.29% in summer. They have continued to grow and support students each year since. Additional laboratory technicians are needed to support students in Agricultural Sciences. Their growth in winter 2014 was 33.93%, in winter 2015 it was 186.69%, and winter 2016 an additional 9.04%. Their growth in summer 2014 was 2.33%, in summer 2015 it was 41.28%, and summer 2016 an additional 71.55%. Physics & Engineering has expanded the courses offered to students in the evening. A half-time evening laboratory technician is needed to support students in those classes.

A full-time clerical specialist or secretary is needed in the Natural Sciences Division to support the activities in each department. This position would offer clerical support to the department chairs in Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences & Astronomy, Physics & Engineering, the Histotechnology Program (perhaps the only CTE program on campus without clerical support), and the STEM Center, in addition to serving the increased number of students and faculty in our division as a result of growth.

The Natural Sciences Division serves over 7,000 FTES students each year and we continue to expand to meet the needs of students. The Histotechnician Program remains the only CTE program on campus without clerical support. Our need is for an additional full-time clerical support position and our half-time clerical support position converted to full-time.

Ongoing Plan

Completion 2016-17

Plan or Activity Facilities

Modify facilities in chemistry to allow increased offerings in laboratory classes for CHEM 10/40 and CHEM 20/80/81.

This remains a high priority in order to meet student demand for these classes. Ongoing Plan

Completion 2016-17

Increased engagement in robotics drives increased demand for physics and engineering courses and improves student success and retention rates. The program needs a fabrication space for laboratory and

A program manager has been assigned to the STEM Center renovation project, which includes moving the NSD computer lab in closer proximity. This remains a high priority in order to better serve students. The need for a fabrication space to support students in engineering and robotics remains a high priority. Building F7, the equipment technology

Ongoing Plan

Completion 2016-17

robotics team use. A large outdoor construction space is needed for large engineering projects, such as a solar powered vehicle. Renovate the existing space for the STEM Center to support all STEM courses. Move the NSD computer lab in closer proximity to the STEM center.

lab, needs a clean up and minor renovations to become fully utilized as a fabrication lab space serving students across the NSD and the campus. In addition, we have engaged the campus in a discussion regarding a MakerSpace. We have applied for a MakerSpace grant.

Implement the Addendum to the Educational Master Plan: The Farm. This will require facilities modifications for the equine unit. The completion of the Dog Kennel relocation project, and the conversion of the Small Animal Education Unit (previously the raptor rehab center) are a priority for continued operation of the unit.

This remains a high priority in order to meet student demand for these classes. A project manager has been assigned to the Dog Kennel project.

Ongoing Plan

Completion 2016-17

The Meek is utilized by biology laboratory classes, art classes, and is open during special events. This is a million dollar collection and needs to be preserved for future students. Some specimens in the collection are irreplaceable. A humidifier is needed to preserve the collection. When the facility was constructed, ducting for a humidifier was installed but a humidifier was never purchased. This is a valuable resource for our students and is part of our special events for students and community members.

This remains a high priority in order to preserve this rare collection for students and our community members. A project manager has been assigned to the Meek project.

Ongoing Plan

Completion 2016-17

Classroom instruction in astronomy utilizes the Astronomy Dome on top of building 60. The vibrations due to the operations of the building distort the images observed. This impacts instruction in the astronomy courses. In addition, students are provided the opportunity to conduct research, supported by 99 Special Projects classes. The student research is compromised due to the vibrations. The Astronomy Dome is also used in our special events for students and community members. All user groups, particularly students, would benefit from resolving the vibrations.

This remains a high priority in order for students in our laboratory classes and our community members. This project remains unresolved at this time.

Ongoing Plan

Completion 2016-17

Long range growth will depend on the addition of new science labs in an auxiliary building. These additional plans are part of the Campus Master Plan, and the labs will be critical to future growth in Chemistry, Anatomy & Physiology, and Microbiology, as well as Biology and Physics and Engineering.

In order to meet the high demand by students for laboratory courses, this need remains high. Laboratory facilities will be part of new construction pending approval of the general bond.

Ongoing Plan

Completion 2016-17

Plan or Activity Technology

Ongoing Plan

With the increased growth, our laboratory equipment across the division has been used more frequently than planned. Equipment will need to be replaced. Other equipment has aged out and needs to be updated to remain relevant. This is particularly true of laptop computers used by students for data acquisition and processing. Faculty would like to include more internet resources in instruction and classroom/laboratory assignments. If the lack of WiFi access can be resolved, more faculty will include internet components in their instruction.

The Natural Sciences Division was allocated over $258,000 for instructional equipment. This was used to update laboratory technology across the curriculum, increase hands-on instruction, and improve operations. These resources had a significant impact on instruction ranging from Chemistry students identifying unknown compounds through the use of refractometers to a truck to conduct field studies with students in Earth Sciences and Biological Sciences. An additional $99,896 was secured from the Perkins Grant to update laboratory technology specific to the Agriculture Department, including spray equipment, cattle chutes, surgical laser, and climbing saddles; this provided students with hands-on experience with updated equipment and improved safety. The Histotech program received $3,604 to hire student assistants in their laboratory program, which assists their program with meeting their accrediting body's guidelines. Approximately 120 laptops, 105 desktops, and 10 Macs were replaced across the Division to provide students with updated technology. Approximately 34 new access points for WiFi were installed allowing students access to the internet for class projects and independent study. There is an ongoing need to replace equipment in order to continue to offer students a robust hands-on laboratory. As student computers become outmoded, they will need to be replaced. Additional WiFi access points are needed for students to work on class projects.

Completion 2016-17

Plan or Activity Program Success

Expand course offerings in the RVT program. Explore using cohort model to provide student support and increase completion rate. Hire an additional veterinary doctor to support the program.

This remains a high priority in order to serve students. Many RVT classes were full within three days of registration.

Ongoing Plan

Completion 2016-17

Work with our newly assigned Career Specialist to develop additional work experience sites for RVT and Histotechnology. Determine if the Histotech program can be expanded based on labor market data.

This remains a high priority in order to serve students. We will continue to work with our Career Specialist to expand opportunities for students.

Ongoing Plan

Completion 2016-17

Plan or Activity Select Activity Theme

One of our goals division-wide is to support the special events offered in our division. We plan to continue to support and expand public outreach with the Debbie Boroch Science Discovery Day, Farm Day, Mole Day

We were able to serve students and members of our community through our public events. These events are all very successful and remain a high priority.

Ongoing Plan

Completion 2016-17

(Chemistry), Wildlife Sanctuary, Farm Tours, Meek Tours, Planetarium Shows, and Observation Nights.

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SectionTwo: Where We Are Going—Planning for the Next Two Years of this Cycle

VII. Division Goals for 2016-17

a. Identify the overarching goals (informed by Unit goals) that will guide your Division's work for the 2016-17 year and beyond in the following table. Connect those goals to the College Themes. This section is pre-populated with the overarching goals from your 2014-15 Manager PIE. Add rows (+) as needed. Delete rows (X). (limit 10 goals)

Roll-Over to see "overarching goal" example

Division Goal Name Division Goal College Theme

Culture of Assessment 1. Continue to encourage and support a culture of assessment across the Division, encouraging data driven decisions that result in changes in instruction A: Academic Excellence

Customer Service 2. Provide excellent “customer service” to students, faculty, and staff – continue to be the “last stop” for those seeking help D: Cooperation/Collaboration

Support for Events

3. Support department, campus, and community events such as, Debbie Boroch Science Day, Caduceus Club Health Professions Conference, Kepler Scholarship Program, Farm Day, Robotics competitions and events, and other events sponsored by one or more departments within the Division

B: Access and Success

Manage Resources

4. Effectively manage resources within the Division, such as Wildlife Sanctuary, Agriculture Farm, Meek Museum, Redinger Exploration Center, Randall Planetarium, Observatory Dome, Ag Literacy Trail, and develop program to recycle 100% of the College’s green waste and manure

C: Secure Resources

STEM Center5. Increase student success and achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses, particularly for underrepresented students, by continuing to support the STEM center

C: Secure Resources

Enrollment Management 6. Continue to respond to student needs for courses within the Division through targeted growth and effective enrollment management B: Access and Success

Cutting Edge 7. Develop, support, and implement innovative programs for students utilizing cutting edge equipment and technology A: Academic Excellence

Undergraduate Research8. Support undergraduate research across the Division by providing on campus opportunities as well as collaborative experiences with four year colleges and universitites.

D: Cooperation/Collaboration

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VIII. Tracking Conditions and Trends

Enter a brief summary for each section based on the 2015-16 year followed by information provided in your Units' PIE forms. Add rows (+), delete rows (-).

a. External Conditions Summary

There is a need to create access for students in STEM courses. According to the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), less than “40% of students who enter college intending to major in a STEM field complete a STEM degree”. The shortfall in STEM graduates is predicted to be one million over the next decade (National Science and Technology Council [NSTC], 2013). In his 2012 State of the Union address, President Obama stated, “Growing industries in science and technology have twice as many openings as we have workers who can do the job”. The report from the Committee on STEM Education states, “The jobs of the future are STEM jobs”. We need to provide access to and continued support for our students in STEM courses. Our CTE programs are impacted by external conditions such as Advisory Committee recommendations, accrediting bodies, and changes to regulations in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), and the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Sciences (NAACLS). Academic areas have found recruiting adjuncts challenging. In areas such as physics, a small number of candidates graduating each year with a Master’s degree severely limits the pool. Other departments have found that with increased full-time offerings in the geographical area, there are fewer candidates available. With the improving economy some adjuncts are finding employment outside of teaching limiting the adjunct teaching pools. Regulations from the California Community College Chancellor’s Office (CCCCO) including C-ID, transfer degrees, repeatability, and Community College Baccalaureate (CCB) degrees have influenced planning. Power outages have caused stockroom doors to be locked, keeping personnel locked out. Likewise, emergency services may be prevented from accessing the stockroom and providing assistance to personnel inside the stockroom during a power failure, earthquake, or fire. This is a critical need.

Student Demand Roll-over to see example

Courses in our Division are in high demand by students. In 2013-14, the Division grew 5.34% in fall, 22.88% in winter, 3.94% in spring, and 38.01% in summer. In 2014-15, growth was 2.37% in fall, 14.21% in winter, 2.03% in spring, and 5.58% in summer. For winter 2016 growth was 19.97%, for spring 1.76%, and for summer an additional 3.00%. We still have unmet student need in many areas. Agricultural programs at other local community colleges have been discontinued in recent years, expanding our service area.

Direct communication with colleges Argos reports

Accreditation Roll-over to see example

New USDA regulations for the care and use of agricultural animals in teaching will effect the operation of classes and farm units

USDA and AVMA requirements for accreditation

Regulation / Policy Roll-over to see example

According to the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), less than “40% of students who enter college intending to major in a STEM field complete a STEM degree” (PCAST, 2012, p5). The shortfall in STEM graduates is predicted to be one million over the next decade (National Science and Technology Council [NSTC], 2013). In his 2012 State of the Union address, President Obama stated, “Growing industries in science and technology have twice as many openings as we have workers who can do the job” (2012 State of the Union). The report from the Committee on STEM Education states, “The jobs of the future are STEM jobs” (NSTC, 2013, pvi). We need to provide continued access to and support for our students in STEM courses.

PCAST, 2012; NSTC, 2013; 2012 State of the Union

CSU system is accepting engineering students for transfer with high GPAs who have not completed significant coursework in the discipline in preference to students with lower GPAs who have completed the pre-engineering curriculum.

calstate.edu

Chancellor's Office repeatability policies have impacted students' ability to easily repeat required work experience courses CCCCO

Green chemistry principles are driving usage or removal of certain laboratory chemical reagents. Compliance with Global Harmonizing System (GHS) for labeling and storing chemicals is required for ongoing operations in our teaching laboratories.

Journal of Chemical Education, American Chemical Society, Safety

Data Sheets (SDS), GHS

C-ID alignment and AS-T degrees require revision or modification of current course offerings CCCCO

Prolonged regional drought, along with global climate change, requires us to address environmental science, water conservation, green chemistry, and scientific literacy with our students.

Science coverage in the media, American Chemical Society

Regulation for film chemicals is changing to ban the use of certain chemicals, which will necessitate the replacement of radiographic equipment with digital equipment

EPA requirements

Economy / Budget Roll-over to see example

Improved college budgets have allowed continued growth, allowing us to come closer to meeting student demand for our courses.

Enrollment management data, budget data

Drought has impacted the availability of feed for our animals, and increased feed costs. Farm account budget

Minimum wage increased in July impacting our labor budget. State minimum wage requirements

Industry Changes Roll-over to see example

Ongoing need to meet the requirements and recommendations of our advisory committees (Registered Vet Tech / Animal Science, and Horticulture; Histotechnician)

Advisory Committee meeting minutes

Staffing Roll-over to see example

Qualified Oceanography and Astronomy adjunct faculty have been difficult to recruit and retain. ES&A internal data

Among the 62 departments in the United States where a Master’s Degree in Physics is offered, four California universities rank among the 24 schools that averaged 5 or more physics Master’s degrees. Two of these schools are potential recruitment sites for Mt. SAC. CSU Long Beach averaged 12 Master’s degrees and CSU Northridge averaged 10. This is an extremely limited source of adjunct faculty.

"Trends in Exiting Physics Master's" American Institute of Physics

Adjunct engineering faculty are recruited from the technical sectors in the greater Los Angeles basin. In these tech sectors, the job turnover is high, which translates to a constant turnover in the adjunct pool. This creates a significant amount of recruitment and training for adjunct faculty.

hrjobs.edu

Security Roll-over to see example

Recent losses due to theft highlight the vulnerabilities of our facilities and the equipment contained in them. Card readers installed at all entry points would provide greater security.

Campus-wide communication

Power outages have caused stockroom doors to be locked, keeping personnel locked out. Likewise, emergency services may be prevented from accessing the stockroom and providing assistance to personnel inside the stockroom during a power failure, earthquake, or fire. This is a critical need. The only key providing access to the stockroom, allowing an override of the hand reader, is housed in public safety. The laboratory technicians who work in the area, the department chair, and Deans do not have access.

Reported by laboratory technicians, faculty, managers

Technology Roll-over to see example

Rapid advances in technology are being made on a constant basis, changing the way the agriculture industry functions. This has both curricular and resource impacts.

Advisory Committee meetings

Students expect to have technological access 24/7 to faculty, notes, grades, homework and resources. Students are transitioning to using new technologies to record their class experience such as making videos of lectures, taking images of boards and using laptops in class. This impacts their expectations of how we deliver content.

Faculty observations

Training Roll-over to see example

Faculty and laboratory technician licensing is required to allow us to legally operate and maintain our RVT program. USDA, AVMA, State and County licensing requirements

Research indicates institutional characteristics play a key role in student success. Faculty and staff will need training to identify institutional characteristics contributing to student success in the Natural Sciences Division. This is particularly important for students who have traditionally been underserved and students who are underrepresented in STEM majors.

Community College Journal of Research & Practice, Community

College Review

The driving internal condition for the Natural Sciences Division has been growth. Courses in our Division are in high demand by students. In 2013-14, the Division grew 5.34% in fall, 22.88% in winter, 3.94% in

b. Internal Conditions Summary

spring, and 38.01% in summer. In 2014-15, growth was 2.37% in fall, 14.21% in winter, 2.03% in spring, and 5.58% in summer. For winter 2016 growth was 19.97%, for spring 1.76%, and for summer an additional 3.00%. We serve over 6,000 full-time equivalent students (FTES). This explosion of growth has stressed our resources. In order to maintain and even exceed our current levels of growth we need augmentation to our supply budgets, instructional equipment, clerical support, laboratory support, new faculty, and facilities. Along with growth is the need to support the students in the classes. Continuing to fund the STEM Center, including faculty mentors, program coordinator, and clerical support, will be critical to student success. Expanded funding of Supplemental Instructors (SIs) to keep pace with increased class offerings in targeted growth areas is crucial.


Engineering introduced their first new engineering courses in 25 years in order to modernize the curriculum and address student needs.

Department minutes, schedule of classes

Completion of the Addendum to the Educational Master Plan: The Farm, shows there is a need for growth. This is particularly true in the RVT program, where students can’t get into advanced classes Curriculum will need to be revised along with degree and certificate modifications.

Addendum to the Educational Master Plan: The Farm

Schedule of Classes Enrollment Data

During this time of growth, aligning course offerings with student demand can be challenging. Communication, including marketing, to students, potential students, faculty, and counselors regarding the course offerings within our division is needed. During this time of growth, aligning course offerings with student demand can be challenging. Increased communication is needed so that all stakeholders understand the challenges. Communication, including marketing to students, potential students, faculty, and counselors regarding the course offerings within our division is needed.

Enrollment management reports

Computer lab facility in Building 80 does not have enough stations to accommodate the number of students in the courses. Furniture and computers are needed for 8 additional stations, which will allow for increased enrollment in the high demand classes.


Funding for SI positions has not been sufficient to meet the number of sections in disciplines across the division that could benefit from these services .

Unfunded SI requests

To support growth in courses with high student demand, additional evening and weekend courses are and will be offered. This creates a need for additional evening and weekend IT support and support services for faculty and students

Enrollment data

Student demand for transfer level mathematics courses and computer science courses is increasing, while demand in developmental math is declining. There is still a need to increase success and transfer across the curriculum. Enrollment in mathematics and computer science courses has exceeded 2010-11 levels. Enrollment in primary terms is above 100%; enrollment in intersessions is declining.

ARGOS SSR0039-A ARGOS SFR0004-B


Course prefixes in the Schedule of Classes and College Catalog identify all courses in the Agriculture Department as AG instead of by discipline within the department. This makes finding appropriate classes and registering challenging for students.


Our students have diverse educational goals, and tracking the completion of these goals on a continual basis is challenging, since not all students have the goal of completing a certificate or degree

Department meeting minutes, Advisory Committee minutes

Work experience policies have changed, impacting students' ability to register for and complete required work experience courses.

CCCCO

AS-T degrees are required at the Chancellor’s office; however, courses from other disciplines are sometimes required for these degrees and have not been submitted for C-ID approval. Certificates and degrees are not auto-awarded. Many students do not ever apply for certificates because they believe they will automatically receive their degree or certificate.

Mt. SAC Admissions and Records

Campus committees, faculty senate, and campus governance committees are scheduled is such a way that it is difficult for lab instructors to participate. In particular, Senate has scheduled their meetings to overlap both the morning and afternoon blocks for laboratory science classes.

Schedule of classes, campus shared governance committee meetings


Instructional equipment funding has increased in the past two years, allowing departments to update and replace equipment. There are still unmet needs.

District supply budget, department meeting minutes

Current funding for supply budgets across the Division, particularly with laboratory courses, cannot meet the needs of increased course offerings to accommodate growth and high student enrollment in most classes. Recent one-time lottery fund allocation for laboratory classes across the Division helped support growth this past year.

District supply budget


In response to our high rate of growth (in 2013-14, the Division grew 5.34% in fall, 22.88% in winter, 3.94% in spring, and 38.01% in summer; in 2014-15, growth was 2.37% in fall, 14.21% in winter, 2.03% in spring, and 5.58% in summer; for winter 2016 growth was 19.97%, for spring 1.76%, and for summer an additional 3.00%) we were able to hire additional faculty in Mathematics, Agriculture, Chemistry, and Biology. We are serving over 7,000 FTES. We still need to hire additional full-time faculty to support students in our programs and continue to sustain growth.

Argos reports Enrollment management reports

Clerical support within the division is limited. Currently, the Histotechnician Program is the only CTE program on campus without clerical support. One additional full-time clerical position will allow us to support students in the Histotechnician Program and provide much needed support for faculty and chairs. With the tremendous growth across the Division, we are serving over 7,000 FTES. We have established a STEM Center, which relies on Division staff for clerical support. We are continuing to grow and hiring additional full-time and part-time faculty. As a result, we need to increase our clerical support staff by 1.5 positions in the Division to serve our students, faculty, and staff.

Department Chair Meetings, Division Operations Meetings

Hourly student workers are used throughout the division to support farm operations, teaching laboratories, tours of the Meek, the Wildlife Sanctuary, and resource rooms for student study. Increasing the budget for hourly student workers will allow us to serve student more effectively.

District budget, Department Chair Meetings, Division Operations Meetings

Continued growth in the RVT program will require an additional full-time Veterinary Professor and an additional full-time Classified RVT.

Enrollment data

Increased growth has created a demand for new adjunct faculty across the division. Enrollment data

The Wildlife Sanctuary has increased in size. This outdoor laboratory supports Mt. San Antonio College students in Biology courses, as well as elementary school students. It also serves community members. There is a need to increase staff support as well as the ongoing budget.

Facilities Plan District Budget

Increased course offerings in the evening create a need for an additional half-time permanent Physics and Engineering Department lab technician.

Enrollment data

The space in 61-3316 has been repurposed as a support center for students majoring in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The purpose of the center is to improve success and retention rates for students in STEM majors. There is a particular need for students who are underrepresented in these fields. To support the STEM center there is an ongoing need to provide faculty mentors, counselors, and tutors. A program coordinator position is in the queue. Additional clerical support is needed to serve the 700 students who utilize the STEM Center each week.

STEM Center check-in data; STEM Center operational meetings

Part-time classified positions that support the farm units and laboratory activities need to be expanded to full-time positions to maintain current course offerings, sustain growth, and allow for the development of revised programs in Agriculture. Some restructuring of existing positions is also needed.


Facilities / Maintenance Roll-over to see example

Insufficient laboratory facilities to meet growth needs and student demand throughout the Division including biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering lab classes.

Schedule of classes, room usage report, enrollment data

Funding is needed to complete the Small Animal Care Facility. Construction of dog kennels to support the RVT program needs to be completed.


Wi-Fi signal in the Natural Sciences complex has been improved with additional access points. In some buildings and areas within buildings, the signal is weak making it difficult to take advantage of internet resources in the classroom.

Division chairs meetings, personal experience

As a result of the substantial growth in the Chemistry Department, lab space and lecture space are at a premium. Modification to existing facilities will allow for additional growth. Convert rooms 7-2114 and 7-2122 into three rooms: (a) 24 station o-chem lab with 12 chemical hoods; (b) 28 seat general lecture classroom with instructor demonstration table; (c) 30 seat “special class lab” – 30 computer stations – irregularly scheduled to analyze data, access modeling programs, associated with classroom or laboratory work conducted elsewhere. Convert 7-2123 into multiuse flexible lab space with 3-4 additional hoods. Remodel 7-2117 to add stock room to support 7-2123 multiuse flexible lab and add office space for a laboratory technician. Add 24-28 student lab drawers to 7-2111 to allow increased sections to be offered in the lab. This will allow the Chemistry Department to continue to grow.

Enrollment data, room utilization study, meetings with architects, faculty, and

Deans

A fabrication space is needed for construction of projects for engineering classes, in particular the robotics courses (ENGR 50A, B, C). The robotics team would also utilize this facility. Building F7 has been identified as the most appropriate location. Minor upgrades are needed.

Department meeting minutes Enrollment trends

Discussions with facilities

The College has applied for a MakerSpace grant in response to the growing student need. Planning for the MakerSpace is underway. We conducted an initial planning meeting with physics, engineering, industrial design engineering, and arts faculty and managers.

CCCCO MakerSpace grant application; Meeting with physics, engineering,

industrial design engineering, and arts faculty and managers.

Buildings within the NSD Complex are not adequately maintained. Classroom and laboratory floors are not clean and require weekly sweeping. Restrooms are not serviced adequately. The custodial staff is responsive and helpful whenever action is required; however, there is insufficient staff to support regularly scheduled maintenance. This creates unsanitary conditions in the common areas and the restrooms which negatively affects student and employee morale. To support college growth, the buildings must be supported, including increasing custodial support.

Number of requests for custodial support within the division; number of EIWOS

and SchoolDude requests; ongoing requests for support in Unit PIEs

Plans for major renovations to 61-3316 to provide space for a new STEM Center are underway. STEM Center plans

Technology Roll-over to see example

Ongoing need for computer replacement plan to replace and/or update existing computers. Every department in our division has a need for updated computers for lab and content delivery.

Department meetings, Division meetings

There is an increased need for WiFi access points across the Division. Department PIE, student discussions, IT discussions

Training Roll-over to see example

Support for attending conferences has improved due to increased travel and conference funds in POD. District budget

Research indicates institutional characteristics play a key role in student success. Faculty and staff will need training to identify institutional characteristics contributing to student success. This is particularly important for students who have traditionally been underserved and students who are underrepresented in STEM majors.

Community College Journal of Research & Practice, Community

College Review

Security Roll-over to see example

The current hand-reader system in the Chemistry Stockroom is nonfunctional (locks and cannot be opened) during power outages, keeping personnel locked out. Likewise, emergency services may be prevented from accessing the stockroom and providing assistance to personnel within during a power failure, earthquake, or fire. This is a critical need. The only key providing access to the stockroom, allowing an override of the hand reader, is housed in public safety. The laboratory technicians who work in the area, the department chair, and Deans do not have access.

Personal experience of laboratory technicians, Deans, public safety

Recent thefts on campus have increased the need for security cables and hardware to lock down valuable resources, particularly computers.

Mt. SAC internal communications, IT communications

In 2013-14, the Division grew 5.34% in fall, 22.88% in winter, 3.94% in spring, and 38.01% in summer. In 2014-15, growth was 2.37% in fall, 14.21% in winter, 2.03% in spring, and 5.58% in summer. For winter 2016 growth was 19.97%, for spring 1.76%, and for summer an additional 3.00%. During this same time period, success and retention rates across the Division have remained high. In 2013-14, retention rates were 72.17% in fall, 74.29% in winter, and 73.69% in spring. Success rates for this year were 86.61%, 86.66%, and 87.83% for fall, winter, and spring respectively. In 2014-15, retention rates were 72.28% in fall, 72.17% in winter, and 74.29% in spring. Success rates for this year were 86.56%, 86.61%, and 86.66% for fall, winter, and spring

c. Retention and/or Success respectively. Finally, for this past year 2015-16, retention rates were 72.17% in fall, 72.20% in winter, and 72.28% in spring. Success rates for this year were 86.61%, 86.52%, and 86.56% for fall, winter, and spring respectively. Overall, the Natural Sciences Division has been able to sustain substantial growth, supporting students across our disciplines, while maintaining high quality programs evidenced by our success and retention rates. Students in our CTE programs requiring national exams (RVT, HT, and HTL) for employment have consistently outperformed the national average. This provides evidence that our programs set the standards for excellence.


Between the 2009-2010 and 2013-2014 academic years, enrollment in the Agricultural Sciences Department increased 6.7% due in part to a 16.2% increase in the number of sections offered. At the same time, the retention rate increased from 93% to 94%. The statewide retention rate for Agricultural Science courses is 90%, so their retention rate is excellent. The department is below expected levels for Non-Traditional participation and completion, especially in the areas of students with disabilities and displaced homemakers. They are working to address this issue as part of their Perkins plan. According to the statistics in Launchboard, approximately 80% of Ag students are part time students. Part time students don't qualify for many of the assistance programs such as EOPS and CARE, so there is less assistance available to these students. Most students who need assistance are directed to these programs, but we have nowhere to direct our part time students.


Chancellor's Office Core Indicator Reports, Launchboard, EOPS

requirements

Anatomy 10A success rate fell to 37% in spring 2012. It spiked up to 62% the next semester, was 50-55% for three semesters in a row, and then fell again to 35% in fall 2014. Even at 50% it was the lowest success rate course in the Biology department. The overall success rate the Biology Department ranged from 85.27-86.22% over the past three academic years.

ARGOS SHR0012-A, ARGOS grade distribution report

Small gains seen in Math department success rate: 63.51% success rate in 2015-2016 versus 62.67% success rate in the previous year. Small gains seen in CS department success rate: 90.21% success rate in 2015-2016 versus 89.78% success rate in the previous year. Success rates have remained high while the number of sections added increased.

ARGOS SHR0012-A

Fall 2014, Spring and Summer 2015 our Physics and Engineering 99 courses has expanded substantially. The increased student engagement increases the need for physics and engineering courses across the board. The center will increase retention and success across the division. Robotics team and formation of Robotics team course: this program has a history of supporting retention across the curriculum. The Physical science courses have had lower success than the department average, up to now there have been no prerequisites for these courses. SI support that we have had has been useful and contributed to student success. Across the department, student success has increased from 77.11% to 81.82% over the past three years. In the same time frame, retention increased from 84.33% to 85.18%.

Enrollment data, internal department analysis, ARGOS SHR0012-A, department meeting minutes

The faculty mentor positions for the STEM center have been filled by one of our Physics and Engineering faculty members and one of our Biology faculty. This strong faculty presence from both the physical sciences and biological sciences in the development of the future STEM center is significant for the students in our division. The center will increase retention and success rates across the disciplines within the division.

STEM Center Internal analysis

The Chemistry Department has grown tremendously in the past three years, serving a larger number of students while maintaining high success and retention rates. From Fall 2014/Spring 2015 to Fall 2015/Spring 2016, the total number of students enrolled in Chemistry courses increased 8.4% (2744 to 2978). During that same time span, both success and retention rates consistently remained high at 85.3% and 87.8%, respectively.

ARGOS SHR0012-A


The number of students in the RVT program taking the Veterinary Technician National Exam for the first time increased from 5 students in 2012-2013 to 39 students in 2014-2015. The pass rate for Mt. SAC students was 83% in 2012-2013, 100% in 2013-2014, 82% in 2014-2015,and 88% in 2015-16. The national average for all candidates tested was 58.01%. Mt. SAC students are well prepared for the national exam.

Veterinary Technician National Exam data

The Histotechnician program students’ pass rate for the Histotechnology National Exam (technician level, HL) was 85% for 2015, one of the program’s lowest success rates. In 2013 the pass rate was 94%. The overall cumulative pass rate for Mt. SAC students since 2003 was 95%. The national average is approximately 70%. For students taking the technologist level national exam (HTL) Mt. SAC students was 100% for 2015 and they continue to have a 100% cumulative pass rate. The national average for this exam is approximately 75%.

American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification


The ongoing support of the STEM Center has allowed us to serve students enrolled in mathematics, science, and engineering courses. The STEM Center provides support services to over 700 students each week. Initial data shows that students using the services in the STEM Center are more successful.

Institutional research, preliminary results

Continuing support of the SI program is crucial to success and retention of students across the disciplines within the division and has had a significant impact on physics and engineering students.

Physics and Engineering Department internal communication

d. Critical Decisions

The Natural Sciences Division made critical decisions in enrollment management. Courses were added where student demand was greatest and cancelled where they were least needed. Where possible cancelled classes were converted – using the same teacher, time, and room – to a class that would meet student need. As a result, the division grew significantly. From fall 2012 to summer 2013, the enrollment was 6,371.10 FTES division-wide. From fall 2014 to summer 2015, enrollment increased to 7,133.25 FTES. This resulted in 10.68% increase in FTES. From fall 2015 to summer 2016, enrollment increased to 7379.13 FTES. This resulted in an additional 3.34% growth. Departments across the Division made critical decisions regarding scheduling based on student enrollment trends and student needs. New courses and degrees were developed and existing curriculum was modified in response to student needs and trends in education. Support continued for the Math Placement Test information sessions, the Pathways and Bridge Programs, the Math Bootcamps (part of the ARISE program), and pre-statistics/statistics course sequence. The STEM Center officially opened and continues to serve over 700 students weekly. Eight new faculty were hired: two mathematicians (one replacement, one growth), an anthropologist (growth), a biologist focusing on non-majors (growth), a health professor (replacement), two chemists (one growth, one replacement), and a horticulturist (replacement); two searches failed and will be reflown next year; one-year temporary position in Biology is in the queue; a program coordinator for the STEM Center is in the queue. Three administrative assistant positions (all replacements) were filled in the Division. Two faculty members have continued to serve as the faculty mentors for the STEM Center.


Departments across the Division made critical decisions regarding scheduling based on student enrollment trends and student needs. Courses were added where student demand was greatest and cancelled where they were least needed. Where possible, cancelled classes were converted – using the same teacher, time, and room – to a class that would meet student need. As a result, the division grew significantly. From fall 2012 to summer 2013, the enrollment was 6,371.10 FTES division-wide. From fall 2014 to summer 2015, enrollment increased to 7,133.25 FTES. This resulted in 10.68% increase in FTES. From fall 2015 to summer 2016, enrollment increased to 7379.13 FTES. This resulted in an additional 3.34% growth.

ARGOS report SSR0037

New courses and degrees were developed and existing curriculum was modified in response to student needs and trends in education. Support continued for the Math Placement Test information sessions, the Pathways and Bridge Programs, the Math Bootcamps (part of the ARISE program), and pre-statistics/statistics course sequence, Statways.

Enrollment management reports, EDC, Basic Skills, department meeting

minutes

The STEM Center officially opened and continues to serve over 700 students weekly. STEM Center check-in data


Eight new faculty were hired: two mathematicians (one replacement, one growth), an anthropologist (growth), a biologist focusing on non-majors (growth), a health professor (replacement), two chemists (one growth, one replacement), and a horticulturist (replacement); two searches failed and will be reflown next year; one-year temporary position in Biology is in the queue; a program coordinator for the STEM Center is in the queue. Three administrative assistant positions (all replacements) were filled in the Division. Two faculty members have continued to serve as the faculty mentors for the STEM Center.

Request to Fill documents, Student Equity Plan


The Ag Department is re-evaluating the goals and needs for the equine unit; planning significant changes to their existing programs as a result of their new Master Educational Plan; separated the RVT advisory committee and created a new Animal Science Advisory in addition to the RVT advisory committee.

Department meeting minutes, Advisory committee meeting minutes

Industry Changes Roll-over to see example

The Ag Department must constantly make critical decisions to assess the crops they produce to make sure they are providing a product they can sell and an appropriate laboratory environment for the students in their programs.

Department meeting minutes, Advisory meeting minutes, Farm

Council

Facilities / Maintenance Roll-over to see example

Planning for facilities modification in Chemistry, Physics & Engineering, and the STEM Center

Department meeting minutes, Division planning meetings, STEM Center

planning meetings

The Natural Sciences Division has six departments, all with outcomes assessed in Summary of Data. 100% of our departments

e. Progress on Outcomes

are engaged in ongoing assessment of outcomes. Overall, the Division offers 210 courses. Of those, four courses do not have outcomes. 183 of 210 (87.1%) courses have been assessed in Summary of Data. The Division offers 16 degrees and 22 certificates. All degrees, certificates, and programs have established Program Level Outcomes (PLOs) and the PLOs are mapped to the Institutional Level Outcomes (ILOs). In addition, the Course Measurable Objectives (CMOs) of most courses have been mapped to ILOs. This represents significant progress this year toward assessing and mapping outcomes across the Division.


Link to Outcomes report

Agricultural Sciences has 67 courses in its department. All courses have outcomes. 66 of 67 (98.5%) courses have been assessed in Summary of Data. In addition, the department has XX degrees and certificates. All of their degrees and certificates have established Program Level Outcomes (PLOs). The Course Measureable Objectives (CMOs) have been mapped to the PLOs, and the PLOs have been mapped to the Institutional Level Outcomes (ILOs) for all their courses and programs.

Outcomes Assessment Report

Biological Sciences has 47 courses in its department. Three courses are without outcomes: ANAT 40A, ANAT 40B, and BIOL 25. 29 of 47 (61.7%) courses have been assessed in Summary of Data. In addition, the department has one degree in Histotechnology. This degree has established Program Level Outcomes (PLOs). The Course Measureable Objectives (CMOs) have been mapped to the PLOs, and the PLOs have been mapped to the Institutional Level Outcomes (ILOs) for this degree. The department does not have a biology degree; however, several courses within their department are part of the AA-Liberal Arts, Emphasis Natural Sciences degree. This degree has established Program Level Outcomes (PLOs). The Course Measureable Objectives (CMOs) from the Biology Department courses have not all been mapped to the PLOs and the Institutional Level Outcomes (ILOs) for this degree. The Biology department has mapped the CMOs of 33 of their 47 courses to ILOs. The Deans will work with the department to bring them to 100% completion by the end of the fall semester.


The Chemistry Department has 9 courses. All courses have outcomes. 8 of 9 (88.9%) courses have been assessed in Summary of Data. The department does not have a degree; however, several courses within their department are part of the AA-Liberal Arts, Emphasis Natural Sciences degree. This degree has established Program Level Outcomes (PLOs). The Course Measureable Objectives (CMOs) from the Chemistry Department courses have been mapped to the PLOs, and the PLOs have been mapped to the Institutional Level Outcomes (ILOs) for this degree. The Chemistry Department has mapped the CMOs of 8 of their 9 courses to ILOs. The Deans will work with the department to bring them to 100% completion by the end of the fall semester.

Outcomes Assessment Report, department PIE report

The Earth Sciences & Astronomy Department (ES&A) has 23 courses. All courses have outcomes. 19 of 23 (82.6%) courses have been assessed in Summary of Data. The department does not have a degree; however, several courses within their department are part of the AA-Liberal Arts, Emphasis Natural Sciences degree. This degree has established PLOs. The CMOs from the ES&A Department courses have not all been mapped to the PLOs for this degree. however, for this degree for this degree for this degree for this degree and the PLOs have been mapped to the Institutional Level Outcomes (ILOs). The ES&A Department has mapped the CMOs of all of their courses to ILOs. The Deans will work with the department to bring them to 100% completion by the end of the fall semester.


The Earth Sciences & Astronomy Department (ES&A) has 23 courses. All courses have outcomes. 19 of 23 (82.6%) courses have been assessed in Summary of Data. The department does not have a degree; however, several courses within their department are part of the AA-Liberal Arts, Emphasis Natural Sciences degree. This degree has established PLOs. The CMOs from the ES&A Department courses have not all been mapped to the PLOs for this degree; however, the ES&A Department has mapped the CMOs of nearly all their courses to ILOs. The Deans will work with the department to bring them to100% completion by the end of the fall semester.


The Physics & Engineering Department (PENG) has 25 courses. All courses have outcomes. 24 of 25 (96%) courses have been assessed in Summary of Data. The department does not have a degree; however, several courses within their department are part of the AA-Liberal Arts, Emphasis Natural Sciences degree. This degree has established PLOs. The CMOs from the PENG Department courses have all been mapped to the PLOs and ILOs for this degree. There are 9 courses that do not have their CMOs mapped to the ILOs. The Deans will work with the department to bring them to 100% completion by the end of the fall semester.


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IX. Planning for the Next Two Years of this Planning Cycle

Narrative Summary

Plans for the next two years center on maintaining our growth and expanding opportunities for our students. Facilities modifications are needed in building 7 to accommodate growth in the Chemistry Department. Revitalizing the equipment technology lab will allow for a fabrication space to be used by students in the robotics programs and across the division. The STEM Center supports students across the division. Long range planning includes expanding opportunities and support for students, renovating the space, hiring a program coordinator, and clerical support. Long range growth within the Division will depend on the addition of new science labs in an auxiliary building. These additional plans are part of the Campus Master Plan, and the labs will be critical to future growth in Chemistry, Anatomy & Physiology, and Microbiology, as well as Biology and Physics and Engineering. The Agriculture Department will implement the Addendum to the Educational Master Plan: The Farm. This will require modifying curriculum including degrees and certificates. The equine unit will undergo major revisions to optimize herd health and size to support educational demands. RVT course offerings will be expanded to accommodate student demand. The Histolotechnician program will be expanded, as well. A new Public Health degree has been submitted and new degrees in Geotechnology, Robotics, and Environmental Science are in the early planning stages. Additional faculty are needed in disciplines across the Division to support student demand for courses. Laboratory technician support is needed for students in the additional growth sections. Another clerical position in the division would allow us to support students, department chairs, and faculty, and one of our CTE areas, Histotechnician. Additional staff are needed to support the horticulture and animal science units.

New Plan or Activity Student Success

The STEM Center will continue to plan activities that support student success and retention in all disciplines across the division, particularly students who have been underserved and underrepresented in mathematics, science, and engineering. We have secured over $700,000 in grants to support students in STEM teacher preparation, develop innovative curriculum in geoscience, develop skills-based environmental science course, improve student success through geoscience courses, and promote student transfer in STEM majors. We will continue to support students through our grants. We will continue to expand course offerings to ensure students can progress through course sequences and meet increased student demand for our courses.

New Plan or Activity Faculty Success

Support new faculty through the tenure process. Support faculty members pursuing excellence in teaching by promoting and supporting faculty-to-faculty interactions. Provide open office hours for the Deans each month to provide additional access to faculty and staff.

New Plan or Activity Staffing

Hire additional faculty in high demand courses and programs to support student need in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Registered Veterinary Technician program, and continue to grow our programs. The Histolotechnician program is very successful. In order to expand the program, an administrative assistant is needed. Our Division has grown and now serves over 7,000 FTES each year. We need to hire additional administrative assistants to support our students, faculty, and staff across the division as a result of our substantial growth.

New Plan or Activity Facilities

The equipment technology lab in Agriculture is going to be revitalized to provide a much needed fabrication space for use by students in the robotics program and across the division. The STEM Center will be renovated. The NSD Computer lab will be relocated in close proximity to the STEM Center to increase support for students. Modifications to existing facilities in Chemistry are in the early planning stages. This will allow us to offer additional sections to students and help serve the growing number of students enrolling in chemistry courses. Long-range planning for new facilities for all laboratory classes.

New Plan or Activity Program Success

The STEM Center supports students in mathematics, science, and engineering courses. One of the objectives of the STEM Center is to improve the success and retention rates for students in STEM majors. The STEM Center serves over 700 students on a weekly basis. We plan to continue and expand our support services and programs to students across the Division. We are planning a MakerSpace in response to the growing student need. We had our first planning meeting with physics, engineering, industrial design engineering, and arts faculty and managers. We have applied for a grant. We will continue to move this project forward to better support students across the Division and campus wide. Expand our CTE programs within the Division. Expand Registered Veterinary Technology (RVT) program and Histolotechnician program. Support the recently developed Public Health degree. Support faculty developing Geotechnology degree and Robotics degree. Support faculty developing an Environmental Science degree.

X. Strategic Objectives

Strategic Objectives Assigned to : Natural Sciences

Your Vice President has assigned the following Strategic Objectives for your area from the Mt. San Antonio College 2015-17 Strategic Plan and identified in the Process Map of Integrated Planning (see Roll-Over below). Not all areas will have a Strategic Objective assigned to them.

Click on the links below to address the components of the Strategic Objectives assigned.

Link to Strategic Objective 2.1 Maintain and improve current employability skills through increased work based learning opportunities for CTE students

Link to Strategic Objective 2.2 Improve currency and relevance of CTE SLOs through use of data from leavers, graduates, and employers

Link to Strategic Objective 12.1 Meet service levels of key operational processes within available resources

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XI. Budget Prioritization Form

SectionThree: Recommendations for Improving the Planning Process

XII. Suggestions and Additional Information

I. What suggestions do you have for improving the planning process for your area?

Summarize suggestions your area has for improving the planning process

II. What additional information should the College provide to assist your area's planning?

Summarize the requests for additional information your area requested to assist in planning

Thank you for your analysis and summary of 2015-16 and planning for 2016-17 and 2017-18. Please save this form and forward to your Vice President by 08/01/ 2016. Questions regarding this form? Send an email to Don Sciore, Associate Dean of Instruction, at [email protected] or Meghan Chen, Dean, Library & Learning Resources, at [email protected].

introduction: division and division units: natural sciences · introduction: division and division...

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