Complexity of Faculty Pedagogical Development Within the Changing Higher Education Environment
摘要
This chapter examines the complexity of faculty pedagogical development in the evolving higher education landscape, where institutions face demographic shifts, financial pressures, and an increasingly diverse student body. Drawing from Ann Austin’s (2011) influential model of faculty development, the authors expand the framework to integrate contemporary research on teaching practices, institutional priorities, and external influences. The analysis highlights the critical interplay of factors such as reward systems, professional development, contingent faculty roles, and the growing influence of socio-political and workforce expectations on pedagogical innovation. Special emphasis is placed on active and student-centered learning techniques, which have been shown to enhance student outcomes, particularly for underrepresented groups. The chapter concludes with recommendations for stakeholders—including institutions, disciplinary societies, and policymakers—on fostering a supportive ecosystem for pedagogical growth, addressing workload inequities, and aligning institutional rewards with teaching excellence. By addressing these challenges, higher education can better prepare faculty to meet the needs of today’s diverse and dynamic student populations.