Adjunct Faculty
Adjunct Faculty are part-time professors or instructors who teach specific courses at colleges and universities. They are hired on a contract basis, usually per semester or per course, rather than having full-time permanent positions. Schools rely on adjuncts because it gives them flexibility to add classes based on student enrollment, bring in real-world expertise, and manage costs. While similar to full-time professors in their teaching duties, adjuncts typically focus solely on classroom instruction rather than research or administrative responsibilities. Other common terms for this role include "part-time faculty," "contingent faculty," or "visiting instructor."
Examples in Resumes
Adjunct Faculty at State University teaching introduction to psychology courses
Served as Adjunct Professor for business administration department, leading 4 courses per semester
Adjunct Instructor for online and in-person marketing classes at Community College
Typical job title: "Adjunct Faculty Members"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Adjunct Faculty Members
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Experienced Level Questions
Q: How do you handle difficult student situations while maintaining professional boundaries?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience with student conflict resolution, knowledge of academic policies, and understanding of appropriate faculty-student relationships.
Q: Describe your experience developing or modifying course curriculum.
Expected Answer: Should show ability to create engaging course content, adapt materials for different learning styles, and align with department objectives while maintaining academic standards.
Mid-Level Questions
Q: How do you incorporate technology into your teaching methods?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with learning management systems, online teaching tools, and methods for engaging students through technology.
Q: What strategies do you use to assess student learning?
Expected Answer: Should explain various assessment methods, grading practices, and ways to provide constructive feedback to students.
Entry Level Questions
Q: What teaching methods would you use to engage students in your classroom?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic teaching strategies, classroom management skills, and ways to maintain student interest.
Q: How do you prepare for a new course assignment?
Expected Answer: Should explain approach to reviewing course materials, organizing lectures, and preparing lesson plans.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic classroom management
- Lesson planning
- Use of learning management systems
- Grade management
Mid (2-5 years)
- Curriculum development
- Multiple teaching methodologies
- Student assessment strategies
- Online teaching experience
Senior (5+ years)
- Course design and development
- Department coordination
- Student mentoring
- Cross-disciplinary teaching experience
Red Flags to Watch For
- No teaching experience or classroom management skills
- Lack of required academic credentials for the field
- Poor communication or presentation skills
- Unwillingness to adapt teaching methods to student needs
- No experience with learning management systems
Related Terms
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