Why do we teach? Examining faculty teaching experiences and motivation

Abstract

Understanding faculty motivations for teaching can provide a powerful window into what encourages instructors to do the work of teaching. We administered a brief survey developed from self-determination theory to instructional staff at nineteen institutions across the country. These survey items investigated faculty experiences and motivations for teaching. The results varied by race and discipline, among other factors, and we will give an overview of our findings in this session. Discussion will focus on how these findings can inform faculty development and hiring practices. This session was a recipient of the 2017 Robert J. Menges Award for Outstanding Research in Educational Development.