Leadership Studies Ed.D. Dissertations

An examination of the shared experiences of adjunct faculty related to their readiness for teaching through distance learning

Date of Award

2023

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

Department

Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Patrick Pauken (Committee Chair)

Second Advisor

Paul Moore (Other)

Third Advisor

Christy Galletta Horner (Committee Member)

Fourth Advisor

Judith Jackson May (Committee Member)

Fifth Advisor

Kimberly Watson (Committee Member)

Abstract

Distance learning is an essential aspect to higher education and has been for many years. Effective preparation for faculty, and specifically adjunct faculty, has been a concern both pre and post the COVID-19 pandemic. This study offers the lived/shared experiences of adjunct faculty at a technical college with regard to their readiness to teach distance learning courses. This study utilized a phenomenological approach to qualitative research, through interviews with nine adjunct faculty members. The participants represented a wide range of experiences and ages. Focus areas identified and addressed included prior teaching experiences, perceptions, and opinions regarding teaching through distance learning and comfort using technology. Findings from the study offered four emerging themes: (1) faculty not knowing or understanding how or where to start teaching through online learning, (2) the level of support offered to adjunct faculty, (3) concerns with engaging the students, and (4) technology competency. These findings validate a gap in effectively defining expectations and support while preparing adjunct faculty to teach in an online environment. Leaders within higher education must understand the needs of adjunct faculty asked to teach through distance education and offer clarity, support, and communication early to prepare them for success. In doing so, not only will the adjunct faculty feel prepared to effectively teach their content but will additionally set their students up for success in the online classroom.

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