WNCC 2010 Self-Study Report - Western Nebraska Community ...

There were statistically significant positive correlations among several items on the survey. The
number of ethical, civic, and diversity issues discussed in class were all highly significantly
correlated. The results indicate that these critical and sometimes hard-to-measure topics of
instruction are being presented, and they are covered to an extent to achieve meaningful student
learning results which contribute to the production of well-rounded, informed, and tolerant citizens.
Technological Proficiency
Twice in the past three years, WNCC received a Top Digital Community College Award presented
by the Center of Digital Education and Converge magazine. Out of nearly 200 community colleges
nationwide who participated in the survey, WNCC placed 6 th in 2008 and 4 th in 2007. This award
reflects WNCC’s expertise in the areas of technology such as online classes, computer labs, online
admissions, student access to transcripts and grades, information security and infrastructure,
campus security and weather alerts, and online library capabilities.
The College’s technology-based curriculum is enhanced by the CISCO Certified Networking
Academy, a world-recognized curriculum that delivers information and communication technology
skills to help meet worldwide demand. WNCC has offered this program throughout its service area
since 1999, preparing students for entry-level employment in managing wide-area networks for
business and industry. Between 2006 and 2008, 216 students enrolled in the CISCO offerings.
Core Component 4d: The organization provides support to ensure that faculty,
students and staff acquire, discover and apply knowledge responsibly.
As stated in the WNCC philosophy statement, the College is committed to “helping students clarify
goals by improving skills and providing guidance, encouragement, and assistance in a positive
atmosphere fostering personal growth and social responsibility.”
WNCC ensures that knowledge and information is accessed and used responsibly through a
variety of policies and programs designed to support the ethical ideals of the profession, to support
continuing education, and to provide opportunities for staff and faculty members to participate,
along with students, in activities that model social and civic responsibility.
Hiring and Evaluation Processes
Reinforcement of ethical practice is communicated to potential employees with the hiring process.
The criteria for selection of any staff or faculty member are based on the merits, ability, experience
and qualifications of the candidate. Confidentiality is maintained for applicants in a pool, and hiring
committee members are provided an interview guide and given instructions about ethical and legal
procedures for interviews. The institution always performs reference checks and will soon perform
background checks on all new employees.
Evaluations of staff and faculty members are carried out in order to ascertain that they perform
their respective duties responsibly, and a culture of civility and mutual respect is advanced
throughout the institution. Training is provided through the Registrar’s office and IT staff members
to data-entry personnel about what fields are essential to enter, along with specific guidelines
about confidentiality.
Western Nebraska Community College Page 147