VCCS Master Course File Update for ART

1. Introduction to the VCCS Master
Course File
In preparation for revising and updating
the course descriptions for ART.
:)

2. What is the VCCS Master Course File?
• The master course file is a list of all the courses offered at VCCS
colleges in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• The master course file includes the course descriptions that we are
required to use at all of our local colleges.
• The master course file also includes parameters for credit hours,
lecture and load hours, and pre-requisites.

3. Where is the VCCS Master Course File?
• The list of courses can be found on the VCCS website through:
Home Page > Students > Courses & Programs > Courses > Arts
• The direct link is: http://courses.vccs.edu/courses/ART-Arts

4. What isn’t the VCCS Master Course File?
•The master course file does not define the
content of the courses.
• The faculty at individual colleges are
responsible for writing and revising course
content for each, individual college.

5. What are our goals?
• To review descriptions and revise and update language as necessary.
• To agree on parameters for lab and lecture hours that work for all
college faculty load calculations.
• To remove prerequisites from the state level, allowing them to be set
at the college level.
• To remove courses which are not needed, and propose courses that
are needed.

6. For Example: ART 283 – Computer Graphics I
Current description has outdated language:
Utilizes microcomputers and software to produce computer graphics.
Employs techniques learned to solve studio projects which reinforce
instruction and are appropriate for portfolio use. Part I of II.
Example of Proposed Description:
Introduces computer-based media and techniques as a method for creating
art. Develops basic skills in software and hardware. Develops understanding
and application of visual language through studio instruction, lecture and
critique. Explores the elements and principles of design. Supports conceptual
development through introduction to historical and contemporary practices
and critical analysis.

7. Revision Process
• Revision begins with one college, and the VCCS prefers to have the
course revisions presented together.
• NOVA has volunteered to process the paperwork, but there must be
agreement across the state before any revisions are accepted..

8. Revision Process
• Collect feedback on descriptions (survey online and paper)
• Create draft revisions.
• Send drafts to VCCS ART faculty for comments.
• Repeat process until consensus.
• Collect emails of support from VCCS ART faculty.
• Collect emails of support from transfer institutions or advisory committees, as
appropriate.
• (Simultaneously, NOVA will revise content for NOVA courses in order to send new course
descriptions through the NOVA curriculum committee to the VCCS. We will share NOVA
content changes, but no other college is required to adopt the same content.)
• Collect all further information for VCCS paperwork.
• Present to NOVA Curriculum Committee, and then through VCCS process.

9. Survey of Art Faculty
• Name
• College
• Position
• Email
• Bb name
• Courses taught:
• Comments?
• Complete the survey online at
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QQ9DKY3