The plan to cut ITS hours exemplifies both failure to include students in decision-making and successful communication between students and administrators to solve problems.
This situation demonstrates misunderstanding between offices on campus and the students they serve. ITS needs to be open 24 hours to reflect the study habits of students, providing computer access and an area for group study.
Any changes involving student services – even small shifts in building operation hours – should include feedback from students before they are finalized.
If students are not available for input, the change should be postponed until students’ opinions are properly assessed.
Despite their initial absence, student opinions in regard to ITS were made known through appropriate channels – students’ reaction to the schedule yielded positive results.
Complaints were properly directed to Students’ Association government members. These SA representatives searched out the staff directly involved in the matter and attended to students’ feelings about the ITS plan.
Through dialogue and open communication with College administrators, the SA government proves how it represents students’ needs.
This efficient way in which student complaints were addressed serves as an example for future concerns.
Although campus services and departments reserve the right to make decisions independent from students’ preferences, student feedback should be a significant aspect of in the policymaking process.
