Page 11 - index

Nano science lab “Instructors need help to be ready for day one.”

college staf. During this time, the instructional deans join the CONTINUE TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT.
college development staf and commit to help new instructors. Te frst day of class for a new instructor is memorable;
Te support of all academic leaders is critical during this however, development does not end the moment the students
development. Instructors will value the values of their leaders. enter a new instructor’s classroom. It has only just begun. A
If the deans, department chairs, and program directors are strong system includes ongoing training and development
involved and committed to help new instructors evolve in their over the frst two or three years. New faculty members will
journeys to become efective instructors, this message about the need help facing many challenges and understanding all of
importance of quality instruction is clearly communicated. the educational jargon. Tey may need assistance with the
To prepare for teaching, the frst few weeks include availability of diferent learning technologies. Tey will need
instructional courses and development opportunities that are to learn how to navigate the college’s learning management
close to a “Teaching 101” course. Demonstrating that sound system. Many instructors today are asked to teach in a variety
teaching pedagogy is grounded with strong instructional of diferent delivery methods, so they may need additional
planning, engaging teaching strategies, and aligned with assistance learning to teach online or hybrid courses. New
performance assessments is important. Many experienced instructors will need continued coaching with lesson planning,
instructors and college development stafs work directly with instructional activities, and assessment development.
the new faculty members and coach them so they are ready for Te commitment by the institution and academic leaders for
the frst day with their students. training and development must be continuous. Te extended
Students today need and expect access to support services. commitment could take the form of faculty seminars,
Instructors are the greatest conduits to students’ awareness of structured courses in pedagogy, timely training sessions, peer
services; therefore, before the frst day of class, new instructors observation, and even administrative observations. Te systems
must be informed about the support systems available for must be designed intentionally to continue development afer
students. For example, academic services could include help the frst day of class. Te academic leader must continue to
with math, science, reading, writing, and social science support a journey for the novice instructor to evolve into a
courses. Te college is responsible for informing all new master teacher.
instructors about these student services. If the instructors
know about the available services, then more students will USE OUTSTANDING TEACHERS AS MENTORS.
access those services. Some key topics that should be shared are Outstanding teachers make the best mentors. Te utilization
the availability and the value of academic services, disability of these faculty mentors is a cornerstone to providing support
services, peer tutoring, fnancial aid, library services, and most and timely guidance to new instructors. Te mentor’s role is
importantly, counseling and advising services. to be that safe partner at school who a new instructor can go

LEADERSHIP Vol. 20.3 Winter 2015 11

Client: The Chair Academy Job: CHAIRAcademy_Journal_20.3 winter 2015 Final size: 8.5” x 11” Colors: CMYK Bleeds: Yes
Created by: Goldfsh Creative - Laura Dvir • 602.349.2220 • goldfshcreates@q.com