Resources

PBS Newshour broadcast with Gwen Ifill. Discusses the increased use of part-time adjunct faculty in U.S. colleges and universities.

Chronicle of Higher Education article by Rebecca Schuman. Questions the notion of a teaching “calling” or “vocation.”

Inside Higher Ed article by Charles Mathewes. Distinguishes and explores tensions between job, career, vocation, and life.

Chronicle of Higher Education article by Julie Miller Vick and Jennifer S. Furlong. Argues that the Joseph Campbell “follow your bliss” notion has been damaging to those seeking academic careers. Highlights difficulties in obtaining a tenure-track position and offers considerations for seeking non-academic positions.

Article by James M. Lang in the Chronicle of Higher Education. Suggestions ways to create a teaching philosophy that will be remembered by a search committee or a tenure and promotion committee. Recommends: thinking about end goals; distinguishing general and specialized courses; giving specific examples; and citing influential sources.

Article by James M. Lang in the Chronicle of Higher Education. Suggestions ways to create a teaching philosophy that will be remembered by a search committee or a tenure and promotion committee. Recommends: thinking about end goals; distinguishing general and specialized courses; giving specific examples; and citing influential sources.

Link from Vanderbilt University, Center for Teaching. Describes purpose and elements of portfolio as well as general guidelines. Includes reflection questions on teaching to jump-start the writer. Has links to other websites with resources and exercises to help with drafting the portfolio.

Link from Washington University in St. Louis, The Teaching Center. Suggests four questions to consider: 1) Why do you teach? 2) What do you teach? 3) How do you teach? 4) How do you measure your effectiveness?. Offers formatting tips and strategies for beginning the first draft of the document.

Link from Ohio State University, University Center for the Advancement of Teaching. Describes purpose and components of a philosophy of teaching statement. Gives formatting suggestions and includes examples from humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Provides links to other sites and hard copy references.

If you're willing to move outside your familiar and comfortable way of teaching and try team teaching, you'll find many challenges but also many rewards.