ERIC Number: EJ1059897
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2015
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1360-144X
EISSN: N/A
Academic Departments as Networks of Informal Learning: Faculty Development at Liberal Arts Colleges
Pifer, Meghan J.; Baker, Vicki L.; Lunsford, Laura G.
International Journal for Academic Development, v20 n2 p178-192 2015
In this article, we consider the role of departmental contexts and relationships in faculty work within liberal arts colleges. Knowledge about how departmental networks relate to success and satisfaction may inform the work of those who support faculty work in liberal arts colleges, as well as other institution types. Analysis of quantitative and qualitative survey data from faculty members at 13 liberal arts colleges in the US suggests that informal departmental relationships influence faculty experiences. Findings suggest that departmental leaders and colleagues are sources of professional development and support, but that counter-productive behaviours interfere with such support and foster negative workplace cultures.
Descriptors: Departments, Informal Education, Work Environment, Role, Qualitative Research, Surveys, Liberal Arts, Colleges, College Faculty, Faculty Development, Statistical Analysis, Networks, Teacher Attitudes, Interpersonal Relationship, Collegiality, Politics, Mentors, Teacher Administrator Relationship, Career Guidance, Barriers
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A