Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are faculty mentoring networks?
Faculty Mentoring Networks (FMNs) are a method for building supportive communities of faculty interested in addressing similar challenges around teaching biology. FMNs usually consist of anywhere from ten to twenty faculty participants working with content and pedagogical mentors from the community. The groups share a private space on the QUBESHub where they can have discussions, share writing, and manage group projects. The larger group is subdivided into smaller groups to facilitate discussions and peer editing. Faculty work together to brainstorm, plan, troubleshoot and generally support one another in their efforts to write CourseSource lesson articles for publication. Mentors facilitate the discussion and provide some guidance and resources.
As faculty grapple with the many details and new challenges of implementing fundamental changes in their classrooms, ongoing community interaction is vital. The virtual nature of FMNs makes this long-term interaction possible by reducing both time and financial barriers to participation.
2. Is this opportunity only available to full-time faculty or can a long-term adjunct faculty member apply?
Yes, adjunct faculty are welcome to apply. Postdocs and graduate students who are teaching are also encouraged to apply.
3. Can I participate if I have not yet taught the lesson?
All CourseSource Lesson articles must be field-tested. If you have not taught the lesson by the start of the FMN, we will encourage you to apply for a future FMN once you have taught the lesson.
4. Can I participate to write about an in-person lesson?
The Online4Bio project, including the CourseSource Online4Bio Writing FMN is funded by an NSF-IUSE grant specifically for expanding publications of online lessons. If you are interested in the format but would like to write about an in-person lesson, we encourage you to apply for one of our upcoming Writing Studios that are typically offered ahead of SABER West and SABER meetings in January and July, respectively.
4. What assistance will be provided during the FMN?
You will have a chance to interact with CourseSource staff and other prospective authors. We will provide information about writing your Lesson manuscript, be available to answer questions and guide your writing, and facilitate peer discussions and peer editing amongst participants.