Faculty Culture Shock: Adjusting to a New College and Diverse Student Populations

Session Submission Type: Panel Discussion

Abstract

Culture shock! How do faculty members navigate when accepting a position where student demographics are different from their backgrounds and educational experience? Do we practice what we preach?

Panelists will discuss their experiences when accepting a position, relocating and adjusting to a new student population at community colleges. The trials and tribulations of teaching to a diverse student body will be discussed. Additionally, what we learned from this experience and practical suggestions will be offered.

Sub Unit

• Community College Section

Chair

• William D Price, Georgia Perimeter College, Dunwoody

• Angela L Putman, South Texas College

Participant

• Stephen B. Thompson, South Texas College

• Alycia M Ehlert, Darton College

• Timothy N Cochran, Holyoke Community College

• Jodeen D. Ducharme, Georgia Perimeter College, Dunwoody

• Mark A. Smeltzer, Century College

• Julie B Mitchell, Kent State University