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Support for teaching the liberal arts: An institutional dilemma

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Abstract

Using data from a random sample of chief liberal arts academic officers in American colleges and universities, the authors examine the support of teaching in the liberal arts (defined as the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities). Information is presented on 15 categories of faculty support for teaching and research, basic teaching conditions, tenure decisions, and merit salary increases. Differences in support are examined among institutions that vary in size, location, sponsorship, and degree level. These findings suggest that liberal arts teaching is in less than excellent health on most American campuses. In addition, the researchers note numerous inconsistencies among resources, standards, and rewards in American institutions of higher learning and urge liberal arts administrators to reduce these inconsistencies where possible.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Humboldt State University, 95521, Arcata, CA, USA

    Lee H. Bowker

  2. Indiana University of Pennsylvania, 15705, Indiana, PA, USA

    J. Richard McFerron & David M. Lynch

Authors
  1. Lee H. Bowker
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  2. J. Richard McFerron
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  3. David M. Lynch
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Bowker, L.H., McFerron, J.R. & Lynch, D.M. Support for teaching the liberal arts: An institutional dilemma. High Educ 16, 379–392 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00129111

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00129111

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