South Dakota House Bill HB1249

South Dakota 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/22
• Refer: 1/31/22

Caption

Require the posting of syllabi and course information.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1249 would significantly alter the relationship between higher education institutions and their students by fostering a culture of transparency. By ensuring that vital course information is readily available and easily accessible, students can make more informed decisions about their academic paths. This bill is designed to ensure that prospective students have access to course offerings well in advance of registration, which could enhance enrollment strategies for the institutions and optimize student satisfaction and outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 1249 seeks to enhance transparency in higher education by mandating that institutions under the South Dakota Board of Regents provide detailed course information on their websites. This includes the posting of syllabi containing major course requirements, readings, and general subject matter descriptions, alongside the curriculum vitae of instructional staff. Additionally, institutions are required to disclose the most recent departmental budget report for each course offered. The intent of this legislation is to inform prospective students and the public about the educational offerings and the qualifications of those teaching the courses.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 1249 focus on the practical implications of posting such detailed information publicly. Critics may argue that the requirement could place an undue burden on institutions to gather and maintain up-to-date course information and faculty credentials, potentially diverting resources from teaching and learning. Additionally, concerns regarding student privacy and the accessibility of sensitive financial data could arise, particularly with the inclusion of departmental budget reports. These factors could lead to discussions about the balance between transparency and administrative efficiency in higher education.