When professors work with students with special needs they should always be certain to create an inclusive environment that encourages all students to shine. Moreover, community college professors need to develop curricula that honor diversity whenever possible. A comprehensive teaching philosophy for the community college professor therefore expands student awareness of diversity as well as of their subject matter. The community college instructor must also keep in mind that many students will have families, part-time, or full-time jobs and must therefore respect the needs for students to juggle differing demands. Professors should always listen to their students needs: if work loads appear too hard for many students then the professor should consider reducing them. Expanding awareness also includes helping students network. The community college professor should introduce students to various campus organizations, clubs, other classes, and community resources. The instructor should direct students to campus bulletin boards and career development offices and also alert students of local job fairs.
Also part of a community college teaching philosophy is academic preparation for transfer students. Many students who attend community colleges do so in order to earn enough credits for transfer to a four-year university. If possible, the instructor should encourage students who are interested in furthering their education to investigate colleges and universities nationwide. The professor should help students discover programs of interest suited to their needs and offer some feedback as to which colleges and universities might be best suited for the individual. Also, a conscientious and caring professor will meet with students after class to discuss their plans for the future and will help students prepare for entrance examinations and application essays.
Professors who ascribe to a student-centered core philosophy will willingly keep after-class...
During that time, professors can meet with students on a one-to-one basis, promoting the types of personalized discussions that are inappropriate or impossible within the classroom environment. While working one-on-one with students professors can offer personalized feedback on how to best improve test or essay scores, how to seek tutoring if necessary, and how to best plan for the future. While a professor cannot also serve as a career counselor, he or she is still responsible for educating each student about a specific academic field. Individualized attention for students can also be arranged via e-mails and instant messaging as well as telephone calls. Personalized attention can excite students, inspiring them to reach their highest potential and maximize talents that might not be noticeable within a classroom environment.
The teaching philosophy for a community college professor is primarily student-focused, but also keeps in mind the core values of the school and of the community. If the college specializes in a certain field, such as the arts or technologies, then professors need to tailor their curricula for students who are interested in careers in those fields. Likewise, if the community college provides broad liberal arts curricula or is funded by particular religious institutions, then all professors need to respect those fundamental philosophies as well as their own. Professors at community colleges should also attempt to place their teachings within the context of the community, as most students will live and work in the same area. Helping students discover community resources is an integral part of any community college professor's job. By ascribing to a core philosophy as outlined in this paper, community college professors can expose their students to new possibilities, expand their awareness of particular fields of interest, and excite students to use their education to maximize their talents and abilities.
