Reflections on COCAL XI: The Search for Professional Identity. Issue 3 (September 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Michalczyk, Susan A.; Newfield, Marcia; Berry, Joe; Kroik, Polina
• Is Part Of: Working USA. Volume 18:Issue 3(2015)
• Page Start: 481
• Page End: 486
• Publication Date: 2015-09
• Subjects: Labor unions -- Periodicals; Labor -- Periodicals; Working class -- Periodicals; Labor unions -- United States -- Periodicals; Labor -- United States -- Periodicals; Working class -- United States -- Periodicals; 331
• DOI: 10.1111/wusa.12197
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1089-7011

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <p>The essay revolves around issues facing non‐tenure track faculty (contingent labor) in academia today, as assessed by participants in COCAL XI sessions, addressing a dysfunctional hierarchical structure between tenure‐track and non‐tenure track faculty that perpetuates false distinctions about professional qualifications and professional commitment. The goal: to bring to light the stereotypes that distort the value and contributions of non‐tenure track faculty, so as to restore respect and value for all members of the profession. The essay offers suggestions for strengthening the professional identity of contingent faculty in light of the changes in the hiring process in higher education today through ideas developed at the conference, and additional examples from the author's personal university experience. The importance of educating those outside the academic community about the inequalities that exist for contingent faculty, while working toward solidarity among all faculty, remains a critical factor in the on‐going discussion.</p> </abstract>