Part-Time Faculty Handbook - Ventura College

eginning of the term, with detailed information about the date, time, locations, means of
transportation, and any fees for which the student is responsible.
If an unforeseen educational opportunity arises later in the term, the faculty member should discuss this
as soon as possible with the class. In this case, such a trip shall be considered voluntary (rather than
mandatory) for students to attend. Further, according to district policy, no student shall be prevented
from making a voluntary field trip because of lack of funds, nor shall a student be required to pay a fee
to participate in a voluntary instructional related field trip.
The Field Trip/Excursion Request process helps to protect you from liability. Without having an approved
request on file, you may be liable for any accident or injury incurred by one of your students, including
students driving to and from the field trip site.
Do not arrange for transportation for students or transport students in your personal vehicle.
All out-of-state field trips need prior approval by the District Chancellor.
Final Examination Schedule
The hours designated for the final exam schedule are part of the total time block for which
apportionment is claimed with the state. Thus you are required to meet with your classes during the
time periods identified in the final examination schedule, either for administering a final examination or
for the completion or review of the semester's instruction. Individual students can petition to take an
exam earlier than the published date, using a form available in the Admissions and Records Office. The
form requires your approval and that of the Division Dean. The final examination schedule for each
semester is included in the Schedule of Classes.
Guest Speakers
It is recognized that educational progress may be enhanced by using appropriate voluntary guest
speakers to provide various points of view. Instructors inviting guest classroom speakers carry an
obligation for creating a balance and responsible presentation of controversial issues. While a guest
speaker may represent one point of view, it is your responsibility to balance the speaker's presentation
within the context of the total course.
Do not schedule a guest speaker to take your place in the classroom when you are absent. Notify your
Dean and arrangements will be made to cover your class with a substitute, if necessary.
You can arrange for a guest parking permit for your invited speaker through the Campus Police
Department.
Hours of Instruction
The college is paid apportionment from the state based on an established number of hours of
instruction. You are expected to conduct your class sessions for the entire range of dates, including
finals week, and for the entire time periods listed in the schedule of classes. Classes should meet for
the full time. If for some reason you need to dismiss your class early, inform your division and/or the
evening dean. Instructors may not alter the start and ending times of a course.
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