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Course Curriculum – FAQ's


COURSE CURRICULUM FAQ's


Q: How do I know that GASC's curriculum is relevant?

A: Every curriculum book for every GASC class must meet certain quality standards. This includes both academic and industry standards. Curriculum is developed side by side with local, state and national guidelines where available. This means that students can sometimes earn industry relevant credentials if they successfully complete a GASC course. Some examples include NATEF Certification, CNA (Certified Nurses Assistant) Certification or A+ Certification.

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Q: Does GASC meet all of the guidelines required by the State of Michigan for its Career and Technical Education Courses?

A: In 2004, the State of Michigan began a quality review process known as "TRAC" or Technical Review, Assistance and Compliance. GASC immediately gathered all of the necessary documents required under TRAC for each of its classes in preparation for a random review. This includes information such as teacher credentials, advisory board information, safety standards and student demographics.  In February 2007, the TRAC review was conducted by state officals.  The complete evaluation is available for viewing in GASC's main office.

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Q: Can I request a copy of GASC's curriculum?

A: Instructors at GASC spend countless hours writing and updating their curriculum. Each curriculum book is a valuable tool and is considered as Intellectual Property of the teacher. The curriculum book and map is intended for exclusive use at GASC.

Advisory Board members are given copies of curriculum books to review for affirmation purposes. Parents, sending school personnel and other interested parties may view GASC's curriculum by request, however, copying is discouraged due to the expense and implied property rights.

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Q: Does GASC originate all of its own curriculum or do they use ideas from other sources?

A: GASC often purchases curriculum from regional or national sources for classroom use. Ideas are infused into existing curriculum periodically to enhance what teachers have already developed. These ideas can come from multiple sources including conferences, workshops and networking with other teachers.

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Q: What source does GASC use for Textbooks?

A: GASC purchases textbooks from a variety of publishers. Depending on industry changes, a single version of a textbook is used in the classroom. New textbooks are purchased when significant industry changes occur, contingent upon adequate funding. Several GASC classrooms use no textbooks at all. In this case, teachers use Internet resources or relevant materials from employers.

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Q: How often is GASC curriculum updated or revised?

A: Teachers review and update their curriculum annually. This process usually takes place in the Spring of each year. Changes are made based on employer input and/or new methods learned from professional development sessions. Teachers also work hard to make sure that GASC's curriculum is aligned with local colleges for articulation (college credit) purposes.

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Q: What is a Curriculum Map?

A: A Curriculum Map is a part of every teacher's curriculum manual. It is a visual, chronological representation of what is being taught to students over the course of the school year. It is color coded with all proficiencies to be learned as well as work place skills. Employers, students, substitute teachers and visitors can see view the weekly topics for every class as well as holidays and other significant dates. Curriculum Maps are updated by the teacher in the spring.

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Q: How do employers impact curriculum at GASC?

A: Following each Employer Advisory Board meeting (held twice annually), platform staff review the minutes to integrate new ideas and implement changes where feasible. Employers sign an affirmation form after reviewing the updated curriculum indicating that the content is industry relevant. Affirmation Forms are signed by the board once every two years.

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GASC Technology Center G-5081 Torrey Road Flint, MI 48507 | 810-760-1444
gasc@gasc.flint.k12.mi.us | Updated February 5, 2010| copyright © 2007