What to do when your SWF is due

From Stems & Pieces

Vol 8 No 3, November 1991

You are entitled to receive your SWF covering the next semester "not later than six weeks prior to the beginning of the period covered by the timetable excluding hoilidays and vacation" Your Dean must consult personally with you to review your teaching assignments for the up-coming term before issuing your SWF. Failure to provide SWFs on time puts you in a difficult position. Other Loyalist faculty members have been compensated by Workload Resolution Arbitrators for accepting their assignments late. If you find yourself in this situation consult with your Steward immediately!

There are many aspects to be aware of when considering your SWF.

Review your contract Article 11.01 to be sure you understand the definitions of preparation and evaluation types and their related credits. Demand proper credit for all your complementary hours; be sure all your non-teaching duties are listed. The minimum 2+3= 5 hours is an allowance that you are entitled to - they cannot be assigned to you.

If you have any doubts or concerns, the best procedure is to refer your SWF to the College Workload Monitoring Group, as provided for under 11.02 A 3. This must be done within three (3) days of your being presented with the SWF for review. It is very important to take the time to carefully review the details of your SWF immediately on presentation by your Dean.

Many Deans try to pressure faculty into signing their agreement with the SWF within minutes of presentation - usually within the intimidating confines of the Dean's office. RESIST this practice! Use your contractually guaranteed three days to review the SWF at your convenience. If you are still doubtful, you can simply refer the SWF to the College WMG by checking off the second line and sign your name. If you do this, please copy the SWF and send the copy directly to one of the WMG members. The WMG has not always received faculty complaints in a timely way; some Deans hesitate to forward the complaints on time.