And for some classes that have a heavy technology component (e.g. Auto), one could argue that they have even greater preparation requirements because the respective fields change so rapidly.

In fact, the current system of load has a clear bias against the so-called vocational programs, making them second-class citizens in the academic community.  When professional education is a key part of the college mission, a bias against these programs is highly inappropriate, and damaging to the overall academic excellence of the institution.  It also goes directly to the bottom line of the college--faculty in these programs simply don't have time to pursue the many grants available for voc-ed programs.

Here are some of the damaging effects of the current load system:

*Academic quality suffers because teachers don't have time to prepare for and grade their courses, or to revise and develop new courses.  Or, faculty work too hard, and eventually burn out.
*Program and grant opportunities are lost because faculty don't have time to create new programs, or pursue grants.
*Distortions in curriculum and facilities usage are occurring as a means to get around load problems.  This can lead to inefficient use of classrooms and labs.
*Faculty will leave or decline employment to pursue other colleges or careers with better work conditions.  This is especially problematic in the vocational/professional fields where the faculty can make far more money outside the college.
*Evaluations of part time faculty aren't completed on time because faculty don't have time.
*Faculty don't participate in committees  and other college activities.

In reviewing this complex issue, the committee determined that the following factors should be used in determining load for classes:

    * Preparation responsibilities - lecture notes, lesson plans, examples, demonstrations, classroom preparation, tests, assignment briefs, etc.
    * Grading/email/advisement responsibilites
    * Professional development and training required - e.g. learning new software, obtaining licenses, physical training, etc.
    * Length of classes - There was some disagreement about this, but if a class were 15 hours, it probably requires less prep and grading than five 3 hour classes.