TEACHSOC: Academic freedom

[Del Thomas Ph. D.]

On the list there have been discussions of the frequency of lecturing and class size.  While the lecture hall model is the dominant practice even in sociology classrooms there has been little recognition of the effects of this failed practice.  There are many reasons that the problems with the lecture hall can not be discussed on the list. Faculty particularly adjunct faculty are evaluated by faculty and students. In both cases heavy emphasis is placed on use of the lecture.  Many private posts have told me what can not be said on the list...you are forced to lecture if you want tenure or another contract.  for many years I put on a lecture for the observer.  However, since even full time teaching was not my day job  I did not have the pressure that many of our  colleagues have.  Also, I have always taught in the DV area and have not had to make the investment in  relocating for a job teaching.  There has also been the suggestion that ASA is in favor of promoting academic freedom. Even if you do not go with the claim that the lecture hall model is failed what about academic freedom?  From the number of emails I have received on this matter suggests that the lecture demand is as bad as the loyalty oath. Del