By Lynn Hatter
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wfsu/local-wfsu-986585.mp3
Tallahassee, FL – Governor Rick Scott has been pushing Texas as a model for Florida's university system. Lynn Hatter reports the system's Board of Governors is now looking to Texas to form proposals on reforming Florida's public colleges and universities operate.
In Texas, schools are experimenting with giving money directly to students instead of funding universities based on enrollment. The Lone Star State also uses student surveys and enrollment numbers to rate professors. Florida's University System Chancellor Frank Brogan says the Board of Governors should include university presidents in any talk about changing the system.
"They're ready, they're ready to have this conversation. They're ready to package a Florida plan. We keep talking about the Texas plan. I think Texas' plan is fine for Texas' but I think what the governor has said to us is, he just likes the Texas plan as a conversation starter. He wants a plan and ideas for Florida."
Florida State University has already unveiled a list of proposals, like introducing pre and post-tests into the evaluation process for professors. Brogan says it's a good start and the Board would like to see more suggestions from the state's public universities.