Faculty development programs: A perspective

This article describes a study which reviewed information on faculty development programs gathered from 94 institutions of higher learning. The authors collected information to identify common prac-tices of faculty development programs. Elements reportedly used most frequently by institutions include workshops, individual consultations, and resource centers. The authors conclude by mentioning some innovative approaches to faculty development, as well as some new initiatives undertaken at their own institution as a result of their findings. In recent years, greater accoWltability in higher education has become essential. Budget cuts, less desirable student/instructor ratios, and changing student populations are a few of the reasons that have made gaining insight into existing programs important. Faculty development programs are not exempt from feeling the ctWlch of shrinking resources. At the same time that these facult