The Importance of Required Courses on Effective Teaching Methods for College Faculty

Effective teaching is not an immediate skill acquired by accident. It requires deliberate learning, practice, and refinement. This article discusses the necessity of required courses on effective teaching methods for college and university faculty, emphasizing the impact such training can have on student success and overall academic performance.

Why Should College Faculty Be Required to Take Pedagogy Courses?

Teaching methods vary widely among college faculty, and each method can greatly influence student engagement and learning outcomes. Without formal training in effective teaching methods, instructors may struggle to identify and implement the most suitable techniques for their students. This article advocates for the importance of mandatory pedagogy courses, highlighting the benefits for both faculty and students.

Current Practices in Faculty Training

Many universities already provide some form of pedagogy training as part of faculty development programs. For example, during their graduate school days, faculty members may have had the opportunity to teach labs and lower division courses, often under varying levels of supervision. These experiences can lay a solid foundation for effective teaching, especially in large universities where standardization and training are more prevalent.

However, as faculty gain experience, they often receive more autonomy in their teaching methods. Some professors are naturally more skilled, and this is clearly evident in their ability to engage students and achieve desired learning outcomes. In contrast, less effective teachers can have a negative impact on students, and it's important to identify and address these challenges proactively.

Some subfields, particularly in research-intensive universities, may place a higher value on teaching than others. For instance, universities that prioritize external funding for research might stress research over teaching. As a result, faculty at these institutions often have reduced teaching responsibilities and less emphasis on pedagogy training.

Benefits of Pedagogy Training for Faculty

Teaching is a complex process that requires continuous learning. For professors actively engaged in the classroom, understanding and applying effective teaching methods can significantly enhance the learning experience for students. Courses on pedagogy not only provide theoretical knowledge but also practical skills that can be immediately applied in the classroom.

My own experience, for example, involved receiving minimal pedagogy training before stepping into a classroom. This initial lack of preparation made me acutely aware of the importance of ongoing training and development. My institution recognizes that teaching effectiveness is critical, hence the requirement for pedagogy workshops and the allocation of time dedicated to teaching.

The Impact of Research-Prioritized Institutions on Teaching Quality

Research-focused institutions often have a different approach to faculty evaluation. In these settings, professors are primarily assessed based on their research output, leading to less emphasis on teaching excellence. This can have significant consequences for student engagement and success, as evidenced by my daughter's recent experience at a prestigious private research-intensive university (R1).

At her institution, many professors spent minimal time on teaching and held minimal office hours, limiting opportunities for students to receive individual assistance. Furthermore, these professors often discounted students not in their primary field of study, which can create a gap in student support and understanding. This highlights the need for a balance between research and teaching, ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed.

Concluding Thoughts

While not all institutions have robust pedagogy training programs, the importance of such training for college and university faculty cannot be overstated. Effective teaching methods are crucial for enhancing student learning outcomes and creating a positive academic environment. It is essential for institutions to prioritize pedagogy training, recognizing that teaching is a fundamental aspect of higher education, not an afterthought.

By offering mandatory courses on pedagogy, institutions can ensure that faculty are equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to deliver high-quality education. This not only benefits students but also enhances the overall academic experience and the institution's reputation as a leader in education.