How can you develop faculty through continuous learning and improvement?

1 Faculty development models

Faculty development is the process of enhancing the quality and effectiveness of faculty members in higher education. Various models exist for faculty development, depending on the goals, methods, and outcomes of the programs. The individual model focuses on the personal and professional growth of individual faculty members, such as improving their teaching skills or research productivity. It usually involves self-directed learning, mentoring, coaching, or consulting. The collegial model emphasizes collaboration and interaction among faculty members, such as sharing best practices or providing feedback. It typically involves learning communities, networks, or teams. Lastly, the organizational model seeks to align faculty development activities with institutional mission, vision, and goals. It commonly involves strategic planning, curriculum development, or organizational change.

2 Faculty development strategies

Faculty development can take many forms, depending on the model and context. Workshops are short-term sessions that introduce topics, demonstrate techniques, or provide hands-on practice. Courses are longer-term programs that provide in-depth learning opportunities. Portfolios are collections of evidence for assessment, evaluation, or recognition purposes. Projects involve faculty members in solving problems, creating products, or implementing innovations. All of these strategies can be useful for developing advanced skills, exploring new areas, or fostering innovation.

3 Benefits of faculty development

Faculty development has multiple benefits for faculty members, students, and institutions. For faculty members, it can help improve teaching effectiveness, research productivity, and career satisfaction. It can also expand their networks, increase their recognition, and enhance their well-being. For students, faculty development can provide better learning experiences, outcomes, and support. It can also foster student engagement, motivation, and retention. For institutions, faculty development can help them achieve strategic goals such as improving quality, innovation, and reputation. It can also help them attract and retain talented faculty members, increase their competitiveness, and respond to changing needs.

4 Challenges of faculty development

Faculty development can also face some challenges and barriers, such as lack of time, resources, and evidence. Faculty members may have competing demands and limited time for their teaching, research, and service responsibilities, making it difficult to participate in faculty development activities or to implement and sustain the changes they learn. Additionally, faculty development activities may require financial, human, or technical resources that are not always available or accessible. Furthermore, there may not be clear or measurable outcomes or impacts from these activities, nor rigorous evaluation or feedback mechanisms that can demonstrate their effectiveness or value.

5 Tips for faculty development

To maximize the benefits of faculty development and overcome any challenges, it’s important to identify your needs and goals before engaging in any activity. Based on your needs and goals, you should select the most appropriate model and strategy for your faculty development. Additionally, during and after the activity, you should seek feedback and support from peers, mentors, or experts. To make the most of your faculty development activity, you should apply what you learn to your practice, reflect on the outcomes and impacts, monitor your progress, celebrate your achievements, and identify areas for further improvement.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?