Librarians in the University of California system are represented by the American Federation of Teachers. They are currently engaged in bargaining a new contract. In the course of that process the UC-AFT proposed that the following underlined language be added to Article 1, Recognition, in the new contract: The University recognizes librarians as academic employees, and further recognizes […] … learn more→
Author Archives: Kevin
Do University librarians have academic freedom?
Is your PhD stuck on Mars? Apply the Martian Method
‘Hello!’ to anyone who’s stuck in their PhD. I feel for you. As I write, I’m half-way through my PhD program, and I’ve been stuck too. I’m out the other side now, but it’s made me think: a PhD and Mars have a lot in common. Remember the movie, ‘The Martian’? Matt Damon plays astronaut, […] … learn more→
Pro hetero-marriage Professor wins Supreme Court case
Some time ago, a professor made a blog post, chastising a teacher for shutting down a student who advocated for, well, traditional marriage. Arguing for heterosexual marriage is a faux pas on campus today, and the school formed a committee to investigate this “inappropriate” behavior. A few posts on a blog. Seven members on the […] … learn more→
How a university punished a whistle blower
By reporting fraud, my husband acted to protect the scientific integrity of repositories of knowledge in libraries and databases. Protecting these valuable but endangered resources from the introduction of falsified publications must be done early in the manuscript review stage. My husband was a faculty member in the School of Medicine and Director of a […] … learn more→
What about your personal injuries?
It is a beautiful day, you’re safely and sensibly driving down the street, peacefully keeping yourself to yourself when, all of a sudden – ka-Boom! Someone runs a stop sign and smashes into your car. It’s not your fault. And your day’s already chock full of deadlines, personal multi-tasks and a maybe even concert tickets. […] … learn more→
The start of high school doesn’t have to be stressful
This month, more than 4 million students across the nation will begin high school. Many will do well. But many will not. Consider that nearly two-thirds of students will experience the “ninth-grade shock,” which refers to a dramatic drop in a student’s academic performance. Some students cope with this shock by avoiding challenges. For instance, they may drop rigorous coursework. […] … learn more→
Shifting to digital delivery will require creative leaders
Higher education leaders are, in essence, multitaskers: educational diplomats who are equally proficient financiers, human resource managers and pedagogical visionaries. The last quality is particularly important with the introduction of digital technologies and the transition that they will bring to all facets of the higher education environment. Higher education is experiencing the ripple effect of […] … learn more→
A-levels vs the International Baccalaureate: which makes a more rounded student?
Few would disagree that a good education means more than just exam results. The benefits of non-academic experiences – from sports competitions, charity events, or school plays – have been shown to lead to more than just happy memories. Evidence shows that taking part in extracurricular activities can support academic attainment, even into adulthood, as well as bringing personal benefits […] … learn more→
New Higher Education Act proposals make changes, but are they significant for aspiring educators?
Until last week, Congress had made little movement to amend or overhaul the Higher Education Act (HEA) since the GOP-led House education committee approved the Promoting Real Opportunity, Success, and Prosperity Through Education Reform (PROSPER) Act last December. But leading up to Congress’ August recess, three new bills were released that have implications for aspiring […] … learn more→
Social entrepreneurship gives students skills and something to believe in
Student entrepreneurship is being encouraged by governments, universities and students worldwide as high-growth entrepreneurial ventures generate money for economies, universities and the founding individuals themselves. However, students are also at the forefront of a heartening rise of social entrepreneurship across the world in response to societal problems. Discontent with political inaction, austerity measures and government […] … learn more→
