A new proposal referred to as the “college hour” which seeks to extend the time between classes at Pierce College from 10 to 15 minutes was discussed during a meeting by the Pierce College Academic Senate on Monday, Feb. 10.
Besides extending the time students have to travel from one class to the other, the “college hour” proposes to block out a specific time during the week where classes will not be scheduled, explained Kathleen Burke, president of Pierce College.
Burke said that the purpose of the hour is to provide a time “for students to create more of a college life on campus.” The time would also give professors a chance to interact with students outside of the classroom.
Earic Peters, vice-president of Student Services spoke in favor of the motion saying he believes there is a connection to success on academics once “campus/student life” is linked with faculty engagement.
“The more time you spend on campus, the more time you’ll be connected with the school,” Peters said. “If we build a robust campus life it will provide an opportunity for students to create that connection.”
Anthony Gabrielli, associate professor of political science expressed concern about the idea of the college hour.
“Why would you take time away from classes when you have people teaching in trailers?” Gabrielli said. “You want people to be engaged but you have fences and construction going on all around.”
Jill Binsley, professor of computer applications and office technologies said she “liked the idea” but wants more research done on how the proposed change in scheduling will affect students.
When asked about the proposed “college hour”, Gabriel Greif, a biology major at Pierce College said he is just interested in coming in and out of the campus when he has class.
“Having one hour of nothing might interfere with the rest of my plans,” Greif said. “I’m for the 15 minutes in between classes, but I’d rather go to the library and take a nap if the college hour is too cheesy.”
Karina Perez, a 19-year-old political science major also supported the passing time increase.
“I need those 15 minutes,” Perez said, “but the schedule change might become a problem for students who work.”
Edward Murillo, a 21-year-old business administration major agreed with Perez’s statement and added, “I would rather chunk everything together then have one random hour.”
“I don’t think anyone would stay; it would be a waste of time” Murillo said.
