The Implications of Adjunct Faculty on Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

An adjunct is a part-time instructor paid per course or on an hourly basis. Over the past 40 years, the practice of hiring adjunct or part-time faculty has seen a significant shift in higher education in the United States across all institution types. Increased and continuing reliance on adjuncts have raised concerns about the implications for students, faculty, institutions’ missions, and other vital strategic aspects. With limited resources and increasing demands for accountability institutional leaders need to evaluate their policies and practices regarding hiring adjuncts to ensure the effective and efficient use of their resources without affecting academic quality. The paper identifies the reasons for this shift and examines the benefits of hiring adjuncts and its impact on students. The implications on governance, autonomy, and academic freedom are discussed and described. The paper also examines some of the legal and ethical considerations—as well as the leadership and financial considerations—involved in hiring adjuncts. Finally, the paper provides recommendations for educational leaders to consider when reviewing their institutions polices for faculty, including adjuncts.

Keywords: adjunct faculty, higher education, administration, educational leaders

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/11-32-13

Publication date: November 30^th 2020