Preamble
As prescribed by University policy and contractual agreement, this Handbook contains the operational policies and procedures for the Department of Psychological Sciences (hereinafter the “Department”), College of Arts & Sciences (hereinafter the “College”), Kent State University (hereinafter the “University”). This Handbook has been developed by and for the faculty members in the Department. It is designed to address all matters of central importance to faculty. These include, but are not limited to, recruiting and hiring new faculty, reappointment, promotion and tenure, and employment procedures. As specified by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), regional campus handbooks shall be established within their respective units.
The procedures and policies contained in this Handbook shall not conflict with any University, Administrative and Operational Policy of Kent State University, any applicable CBA, or any federal, state and local law. A Departmental Operations Manual contains additional detail about Departmental operating procedures and specific duties associated with administrative positions in the Department.
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Departmental Goals and Core Values
A. DEPARTMENTAL GOALS
The Department of Psychology offers courses at the general, baccalaureate, and doctoral levels. Research and scholarly activities are viewed as an integral part of the Department's mission. The Department's goals are to provide high-quality, cost-effective instruction at all levels, contribute to the discipline of psychology as a profession and science through research and training, and serve the University and public when faculty and/or student expertise can make a contribution.
In addition to providing courses required by numerous programs across the University, the Department provides staff, facilities, and courses for the interdepartmental program in Biomedical Sciences, the Integrated Life Sciences Program for medical students, the Honors College, and the College of Continuing Studies.B. CORE VALUES
The Department has historically been an environment characterized by a sense of community in which individuals demonstrate collegiality and mutual respect. The Department values diversity in all aspects of intellectual, professional and personal interactions. The Department values openness and fairness, and strives to adhere to democratic principles in the decisions it makes. One of the Department’s most cherished values is the maintenance of a working environment which fosters the professional growth of individuals and the Department as a whole. Excellence in scholarship, instruction, and service activities are each valued, and individuals should contribute in each of these domains.
Scholarly activity is viewed as a signature characteristic of the Department. A high value is placed on research productivity and grantsmanship, and on individual and collaborative research activities. It is important that the Department support the professional development of junior colleagues and graduate students. Working to increase the national and inter-national visibility of faculty research and reputation is a long-standing value.
The Department also values the education and training of undergraduate and graduate students. At the undergraduate level, the development of scientific curiosity, critical thinking, and the ability to evaluate research is valued. One of the Department’s strengths is to prepare undergraduate majors for post-baccalaureate education. Doctoral student education and training are priorities for the Department. A strong mentoring relationship between productive Faculty and graduate students is viewed as crucial to their professional development as academicians, researchers, and clinicians.Finally, service to the Department, the University, and the profession is strongly valued. The Departmental culture of service views such activities as a shared responsibility. All must serve, with tenured Faculty contributing proportionately more than their junior colleagues.