Faculty and Scholarship: The Need for Change

Abstract

The traditional functions of American universities-teaching,research, and service have become too hierarchical, with research receiving the highest priority. In order to achieve a better balance among these functions, universities of the twenty-first century should consider four strategies: 1) organizing the institution to be more compatible with interdisciplinary research, 2) broadening the definition of scholarship, 3) recognizing that faculty change over time, and 4) revising the method and practice off faculty evaluation. In so doing, faculty are more likely to have greater flexibility in their careers and sustain their vitality for their entire professional lives.