Visit to Scottsdale Community College
On September 29, 2000, the PFMF group visited Scottsdale Community College to learn more about the hiring process of full time faculty positions as well as the role the faculty plays at the college. Our agenda began with an introduction by Connie Carruthers. Other faculty members present included John Losse, Judy Lambert, Patricia Dueck, Donna Guhse, Teri Glaess and Dan Nearing.
Following the introductions, PFMF member Brian Bird participated in a mock interview. He was asked the actual questions used for interviews conducted in the previous year's hiring process. The questions included such topics as Mr. Bird's opinion on the success of a math instructor at a community college and various impacts on teaching style. After the interview, we discussed pro's and con's of his answers as well as other administrative hurdles one has to jump to obtain a desired position. The panel was extremely informative on the subject and receptive to additional questions.
Next, the faculty members took us on a tour of the math department. The tour included the classrooms which were all equiped with the latest teaching technology. We ended up in the faculty lounge and further discussed the hiring process. Patricia Dueck, who was just hired as full time faculty in the math department, expanded on her second interview which included a microteach. Again, the discussion and tips given by the faculty were very informative.
At the end of our visit, we discussed possible projects where the SCC faculty would be willing to work with PFMF members. For instance, develop, present and grade a project for a professor's class or analyze the use of technology in the classroom. The meeting adjourned at 4pm after we were treated to cake and more one on one conversations with the faculty members.