| Scope and method of study. The purpose of this study was to explore and gain insight into part-time/adjunct faculty integration within the hierarchical organizational structure of higher education. Multiple perspectives were collected on the subject of adjunct integration from administrators, department heads, and part-time faculty and viewed through the lens of Senge's (1994) learning organization model. The purpose was accomplished by conducting in-depth, open-ended interviews with six administrators, six department heads, and 11 part-time/adjuncts at two regional universities in the State of Oklahoma. In addition, the purpose was accomplished through document analysis of university records, handbooks, Web sites, strategic plan, and accreditation reports, and through site visitation for personal observation of the adjuncts' environment at each university.; Findings and conclusions. Communication, involvement, and recognition of adjunct members were found to be important concepts for the integration of adjunct faculty into the higher education community. This study found that serious adjuncts needed to be assertive in their efforts to integrate themselves in the system. In addition, administrators needed to think in terms beyond just how adjuncts' service benefited their university. Administrators must tap into the intrinsic rewards that motivate adjuncts to service. Administrators, department chairs, and adjuncts needed increased opportunities to dialogue with each other. Administrators should ask their adjuncts how much involvement they feel is reasonable with what they are paid and the times they work. In addition, adjuncts must be recognized for their service to the university and the department they serve. Adjuncts voiced their need to feel valued for their contributions to the university. This was an important concept in retaining qualified, serious adjuncts. This research study helped gain insight and extended the knowledge and understanding of treating each other as colleagues, regardless of rank, in higher education. |
