FRED DUVAL PRESENTS

ARIZONA BOARD OF REGENTS

3-16-10

            On March 16^th, 2010 GAZeL associates were treated to a presentation by Fred DuVal, Vice President of the Arizona Board of Regents.  Mr. DuVal spoke about the problems of the Universities and Community Colleges in Arizona.  One of the biggest is that about 38% of the incoming students must take remedial courses because they did not achieve acceptable levels in the K-12 system.  Also the various institutions do not communicate with each other.  This must improve.

            There is some digital curriculum being used in some K-12 schools, but sometimes the students must help the teachers understand the importance of the technology that is being used in business and in the general population. Professional training is insufficient to help teachers use a hybrid system effectively.  Of course there is very little funding to provide computers, teacher training and other essential technology.  Many questions were asked and suggestions given by the audience.  Some decisions must be made about the length of the school year, the individual needs of each student and the ability to learn outside of normal school hours.

            The matter of the cost of higher education was brought up.  The Arizona Universities are raising tuition, but tuition is still much lower than other State Universities.   The Board of Regents is working with on line universities as well as state universities and colleges to provide answers to the questions of providing differing levels of diplomas in order to make college degrees more affordable.

            This was an interesting networking event and participation by all attendees was high.