Can Faculty Development Improve Student Course Outcomes? Evaluating the Impact of ACUE–Trained Faculty at the University of Southern Mississippi

• In Event: Research on Faculty Teaching, Evaluation, and Development

Abstract

We examine the impact of faculty at the University of Southern Mississippi who take a faculty development course (ACUE faculty) on their students’ contemporaneous course outcomes in gateway courses and subsequent course outcomes in the same discipline. To measure the impact of ACUE faculty on students’ contemporaneous course outcomes, we use a difference-in-differences approach with two-way fixed-effects. To measure the impact of ACUE faculty on students’ subsequent course outcomes, we use a three-way fixed effects approach. We find positive impacts on students’ contemporaneous course grades, passing rates, and DFW rates, though effects appear to fade over time. Additionally, there is evidence of improved instructional quality, as ACUE faculty have positive effects on students’ subsequent course grades and DFW rates.

Authors

• Theo Pippins, Association of College and University Educators

• Amy Chasteen, University of Southern Mississippi

• Kelly Ferris Lester, University of Southern Mississippi

• Elizabeth Lawner, Association of College and University Educators

• Meghan Snow, Association of College and University Educators