The Role of Substitute Teachers in Higher Education: A Scrutiny

Have you ever wondered why a professor doesn’t show up in a class but instead, a student teacher or online resources are used? This situation can be perplexing, especially if you were expecting a direct interaction with a seasoned professor. But there are underlying reasons for this practice, some of which are quite legal and common in certain academic settings.

The Vexing Situation: A Student Teacher or Online Resources?

When a professor consistently doesn't show up in class and instead a student teacher or online resources are utilized, it raises several questions. A student teacher typically refers to an individual who is in the last stages of preparing to become a K-12 teacher. The presence of a student teacher in a college classroom is often seen as a departure from the expected educational experience.

What Is the Department Chair's Role?

First and foremost, you should consider reaching out to the Department Chair. Teachers who are not fully qualified may be utilized as student teachers to support the education of their more advanced peers. This may be the case, but it can also be a violation of academic standards. If the professor is not fully competent or if their absence is unsuitable for teaching, this can have a significant impact on the quality of education.

Whose Responsibility Is It?

It is essential to address the concern with the appropriate academic authority. Complaining to the Dean is also a valid course of action. However, it's important to understand that academic policies can vary greatly depending on the institution. At the University of Chicago, for instance, a friend of mine was given a full scholarship to Harvard's Master of Arts in Religion program, and a contract agreement was part of the deal. This agreement required her to alleviate her professor of two classes per year, effectively meaning she did the teaching while the professor did other work. This is a common practice in many elite institutions.

Emory University's Commitment

One of the reasons I chose to attend Emory University was its M.Div. program, where I was assured that I would always receive the professors as scheduled and never a teaching assistant (TA). However, TAs did have a role; they managed breakout sessions for major introductory classes in fields like Old Testament, New Testament, and Ethics.

A Balancing Act

If you decide to voice your concerns, you may find that the Department Chair or Dean is unlikely to take strong action, as long as the class is covered and the student receives their grades on time. While professors are typically obligated to teach, exceptions can be made for online classes where their role may be more supervisory rather than hands-on instruction.

Conclusion

In higher education, the appearance of substitute teachers or the use of online resources instead of professors can be a complex issue. Whether it is a practice of ethical standards or a deviation from them depends on the institution and its policies. While you have the right to voice your concerns, the response from the academic authorities may be limited. Understanding the context and the academic policies of your institution is crucial for navigating such situations effectively.