Program Types

Regardless of the focus of the program, there are many different structures used to carry out these activities. Some of the most common are shown below:

Faculty Committee Run Programs

Many programs just starting are run by a faculty committee made up of individuals who have a special interest in the quality of teaching. They are usually volunteers, unpaid, who organize and oversee the offerings. When this is the organizational structure of the development program, there is a great dependence on the cooperation of peers to conduct the actual workshops, consultation, research or other activity.

Programs Run by a Single Individual

Alternatively, many new programs have a single individual who oversees the entire program. This individual might be an administrator responsible for faculty matters or a faculty member with a part-time assignment for development activities. As with the previous structure, this individual must rely on the cooperation of peers to do the actual work. He or she is often advised by a committee of faculty.

Centrally Located Centers

Some institutions, particularly larger institutions or those which have had programs for a number of years, have an administrative staff unit staffed by professionals and responsible for development activities. The number of staff members varies depending on the types and extent of the programs. For example, faculty development programs tend to be smaller, while instructional development programs, which often also house media services, tend to be larger. These centers are usually administratively located under the Office of Academic Affairs.

Decentralized Centers

Some larger institutions house development programs within subunits of the institution. Many programs at smaller institutions began in such a fashion.