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Anyone here teach community college/college?
I need some advice!
I applied for a job as an instructor of accounting/business at a local community college. Jobs where I live are so scarce, especially in the accounting field, and I've always thought that I might like to teach at the college level, so I jumped at this opportunity.
I have a phone interview on Friday and then after that (assuming the first interview goes well) I will have to do a teaching demonstration and two more interviews, one with the staff committee and another with the president and VP of the college. I am SO nervous. I've been to interviews before, but never one like this.
The only requirements for the job were a Masters in Accounting/MBA and experience in instructional technology, which I meet. I have no teaching experience, but they didn't require it. However, my lack of teaching experience is what makes me the most nervous about it all.
Do any of you that have/had a similar job have any advice for the interviews or demonstration? Do you like your job? Did you have teaching experience before the job? Any advice, tips, etc. would be REALLY appreciated.
TIA!
Re: Anyone here teach community college/college?
Tenure track.
My husband teaches at the college level. He really enjoys it. He has had to do teaching demonstrations as well as sit in on other teaching demonstrations and he suggests, obviously, picking something about your field that you are really comfortable with for the demonstration. If it helps you, you may want to prepare a powerpoint. A lot of classrooms these days are going electronic so that might help you stay on track so your nerves don't get the best of you.
Also, if they have given you a time frame, be sure you stick to it. He has said that he has been in several demonstrations and the people just keep going on and on and it gets kind of awkward. So make sure you have enough material for the time that you have been given and don't be afraid to wrap it up on your own rather than waiting for them to cut you off. They will probably also ask you questions, like students will, so be prepared for that.
As far as you not having any previous teaching experience, for the interview part I would just focus on your "real world" experience in the field and how that can help you prepare your students.
HTH and Good luck!
Glad you asked this - I've been considering applying for a similar position at the college in our town. It requires a Masters degree in a related field (I have one in accounting), as well as 3 years of experience & willingness to teach a web-based course. I've just assumed that I'm too young to apply....may I ask how old you are & how much accounting experience you have? I'm just curious because I may go for it just to see what happens...
In response to your question, I'd be nervous too! I've sat in on some teaching demonstrations, but most of the people did really well. I'd do as the others suggested & go with a subject you're extremely comfortable with. Good luck to you - I hear tenure track positions are very rewarding!
Many community colleges today require an active service and scholarship/research program for tenure track professors, so if that's the case, make sure you're prepared to discuss what types of service work you're interested in as well as your research agenda in addition to your teaching. Also, be sure you ask about faculty support for new instructors (because, "It's important to me to make sure I'm always improving my teaching skills.")
Finally, think of some non-traditional teaching experiences you can draw upon for examples. Have you trained new employees? Given corporate presentations? Tutor in college? The more specific examples you can give, the better.
More points on the demonstration.
- If you're not used to teaching, pick something on the easier side.
- You'll probably talk quicker than you expect so practice to consciously slow down.
- Don't just lecture, classes, especially at Community College usually aren't like that anymore.
- At different points, ask questions to check understanding or at the very least ask if there are any questions from the 'students'
- Think about questions that the class can discuss to really understand the point that you're trying to get across.
- Ensure that you have sufficient opportunity for the 'students' to practice.
- A powerpoint is a good idea to keep on track, but don't overly rely on it. Use it to keep on track but keep bullets short and simple.
- A second reminder to stay within time limits
- Try relax and be yourself
One final point for the interview. Brush up on teaching non-traditional students and the challenges and opportunities that presents. Similarly with online classes.These are great ideas and thanks to the other PP's for tips on the demonstration.
The HR rep. gave me a heads up on what I would be teaching for the demonstration, so I definitely have time to research and develop my lesson. It's a really easy topic (a basic intro. to debits and credits), so I feel confident in the subject matter, just nervous about making sure I do a good job of getting it across to students. It's also limited to 20 minutes, so I'm going to make sure I don't go over. Luckily, DH is a teacher and he's going to give me some pointers (if I make that far!). Thanks again, everyone!