SMC may add more technology
By KATIE MILLER
News Writer
Technology Task Force co-chair Julie Storme met with Saint Mary's Board of Governance (BOG) Wednesday to discuss the strategic process of the College's developing curriculum.
A long-term plan being developed by the task force includes evaluation of information technology, student development in technological knowledge, marketing and diversity.
Storme discussed the integration of increased technology in the curriculum, addressing the question of whether or not Saint Mary's had an obligation to make sure its graduates have "technological fluency."
"How can we make this happen? We would like to reconfigure curriculum, not add more credits. We need to set goals to move towards," said Storme.
Storme introduced a variety of ideas that could increase technology in student life.
"We need technology available across the board. We could have a technology portfolio or a learning contract," said Storme.
Besides the discussion of technology education, the issue of financial availability for improvements was raised as well.
"When you are talking about technology, money is an issue. We need to be concerned that there is a level playing field. If there is a set standard, students that came with a better background in technology would have an edge to those who didn't. There should be a way for students to make accomplishments no matter their initial level," said student trustee Molly Kahn.
Storme encouraged BOG to contribute their ideas to the task force and to encourage all students to respond.
"If you haven't heard from other student groups, contact them — if you are the squeaky wheel, it will happen," said Storme.
Teresa Lorenz from the Student Environmental Action Coalition asked BOG for their support in implementing plastic and glass recycling to Saint Mary's. Lorenz used the College's mission statement to support the environmental coalition's concerns.
"Saint Mary's promotes a life of ... religious sensibility and social responsibility. We feel that a religiously sensitive school should prioritize basic and fundamental Christian values, such as a commitment to protecting God's creation. A school that promotes social responsibility should include an awareness for environmental responsibility," said Lorenz.
Lorenz offered a four-step solution. First, the school would contract an off-campus recycling pick-up service. Second, marked recycling bins would need to be placed accessibly on campus. Third, students would need to be educated on proper disposal. Lastly, the Marriott, responsible for providing dining food services to the College, including plastic products needs to cooperate as well.
According to Lorenz, Saint Mary's roughly throws away 2,722 lbs. of glass and 12,081 lbs. of plastic a year. In addition to this, the use of plastic bottles at Saint Mary's is on the rise.
"Twenty oz. bottle machines have been placed in all buildings. At the new Dalloway's and in Madeleva, there is an increased use of plastic bottles without a place to recycle them," said Lorenz.
BOG gave their support to Lorenz and the student environmental action coalition, but suggested that Lorenz also present the concerns to the administration.
"We're here for you as the board, and for what funding necessary; the door is open," said student body president, Crissie Renner.
"I don't see why it is their (environmental coalition) responsibility. It should be looked at through the eyes of the college. It's a huge responsibility: Go to the administration, we are many years behind. I give [the students] great credit for bringing this up, it needs integration in the college policy," said Kahn.
In other news:
u Fall Day on campus is Sunday, Nov. 5. Six hundred and fifty people are expected to attend
u Student body president and vice-president elections will take place the first week of February. Informational meetings will start after Thanksgiving.
u Student body president Crissie Renner and student body vice-president Michelle Nagle met with Keith Dennis, vice president for finance and administration, regarding concerns about Dalloway's and munch money. Renner has received a great deal of student concerns in response to these issues.
u Akmaral Omarava, president of the student diversity board, has submitted a proposal to residence life for additional handicapped access.
u Operation Christmas child boxes are due November 13-18.
All News Stories for Thursday, November 2, 2000
