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 quantitative 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 resources, and manage group projects. The larger group is subdivided into smaller groups to facilitate discussions. Faculty and experts in media and software innovation work together to brainstorm, plan, troubleshoot and generally support one another in their efforts to implement new materials or approaches for creating online, open-source modules for teaching undergraduate biology. 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 an adjunct faculty member apply?

Yes, adjunct faculty are welcome to apply. Postdocs who are teaching are also encouraged to apply. Graduate students may also be able to participate. Specialists in media production and software innovation are encouraged to apply, to work as mentors with the lead author on a module adaptation.

3. Can we choose a module not listed?

No, you must adapt one of the selected modules to complete the requirements of this network. If you have a question about this, please contact Ann Russell (arussell@iastate.edu).