On February 26, 1999, the Distinguished Faculty Award Committee met to decide on criteria for the award. After lengthy discussion, the committee agreed upon the following criteria for recipient(s) of the award (listed here in no particular order):
- Demonstrates subject matter expertise and currency.
- Enthusiastic about the subject matter and about teaching in general.
- Effective utilization of a variety of teaching techniques.
- Clear and effective communication of course material.
- Willingness to meet with students outside of class and/or provides a means for students to receive assistance.
- Respectful of all students.
- Challenges, motivates, and encourages students to think independently.
- Creates a strong desire in students to learn more about the subject matter.
- Guides and mentors students in making successful life/career choices.
- Organized and prepared in presenting classroom material and information.
- Creates a safe learning environment where students feel comfortable so that they can ask questions, disagree with the instructor, or ask for further clarification.
- Sets high standards for student learning.
- Involved in the community beyond Palomar College.
How the selection process works…
- Faculty are nominated by students and their fellow faculty
- Nominees have the option to apply for this award and then submit materials for consideration such as:
- “Excellence in Teaching” statement
- Student evaluations
- Supplemental materials such as Lesson Plans, Letters, Classroom Activities, Student Success Stories
- Materials are reviewed by the Distinguished Faculty Award committee and Finalists are selected
- Finalists are then interviewed by the DFA committee and the winning recipients are selected