Professional and Organizational Development Network in Higher Education

 

Date of this Version

Winter 2021

Document Type

Article

Citation

To Improve the Academy: A Journal of Educational Development (winter 2021) 40(2): 152-173

doi: 10.3998/tia.970

Comments

License: CC BY-NC-ND

Abstract

In today’s impoverished higher education fiscal climate, especially considering the enormous financial implications to higher education of accommodating the changes required by the coronavirus pandemic, “nonessential” though highly important programs, such as centers for teaching and learning (CTLs), are very likely to be underfunded. In this study, we illustrate how underfunded programs can leverage peer collaboration and support to initiate productive, formal systems of assistance for faculty by describing a number of such programs developed by and/or coordinated by our CTL. Moreover, we propose that sustainable programs, especially at small liberal arts institutions, must include a strong component of peer networking and in-house expertise rather than relying on outside consulting services. In a climate of shrinking dollars, CTLs can still perform some key roles effectively while continuing to advocate for more adequate funding.

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