Should universities hire teachers dedicated to teaching?

Question

I've been observing that universities tend to have professors do both research and teach. In reality, most of the professors would rather spend all of their time researching.

The problem lies in that fact that teacher's assistants frequently do most of the teaching, especially in larger universities (the research powerhouses). I think this would degrade the quality of education that students get.

So, I believe that we should have mixed universities with dedicated teachers, and some part teacher, part researcher professors. Dedicated teachers to improve education quality, but some researchers becuase it offers oppurtunities to university students.

Any thoughts?

Answer 1

4 year research universities do not hire professors to teach. They hire them to do research and bring money into the school with their grants.

Universities that do not focus on research do hire professors that are good instructors, but they also have to have an excellent research background.

If you want better teachers, then go to non research universities and community colleges (but don't take courses from part-timers for the most part).

It is not a problem, because at the 4 year research level, they need to weed out students anyways. If one can't mature and figure out how to succeed without someone holding their hand, they aren't going to succeed in life anyways.

The aim is that the professor is the expert at the material and the student should be interested in the subject matter to learn it themselves with guidance. If they can't do that, they don't deserve the degree.

What you want is not going to happen. What you can do is just go to a university that doesn't focus on research.

Answer 2

It all depends on which college or university you have reference to and the subject being taught. There are sabbatical leaves which professors use for research or extending their knowledge of their craft. There are subjects like the sciences, medicine and surgery where professors should indulge in research. One must know before he can tell.Because one researches doesn't mean he isnt dedicated .

Answer 3

I understand what you are trying to say, but I think that at the college level the skill a person needs to succeed is being able to read and do research and basically teach yourself. The lectures and instruction you do get are to help you know a direction in which you apply your abilities as a student.

Answer 4

Academically, I agree with you. The reason they hire researchers and professors who get published is that brings the university money. The money they get from companies and grants is what keeps them thriving. Tuition just pays the bills.

Answer 5

While the teachers assistants are conducting the class, it is in the fashion that the professor wish's So while they are not in the room, they are still involved with what is happening

Answer 6

professors that only teach would be left outdated through time...technology, knowledge of the subject he is teaching advances rapidly....I think professors should have a good balance of research and teaching to be effective professors....this is for the professors who are teaching technical subjects like science and technology....but for language or literature...i think the professors should stick to teaching

Answer 7

i think it is really a big mistake to demand research from teachers. it makes for very poor teachers

Answer 8

good luck