- #1
ultimateguy
- 122
- 1
If I have a concern about one of the faculty in the department, should I go to the chair of the department, or higher up?
Problem Solving: Faculty Concerns
- Thread starter ultimateguy
- Start date
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the appropriate channels for addressing concerns about faculty members within an academic department. It explores the nuances of different types of concerns and the recommended escalation process.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant suggests that the appropriate course of action depends on the nature of the concern.
- Another participant indicates a preference for starting with the lowest level of authority, escalating to the school president if necessary.
- A further contribution highlights that serious issues, such as harassment or dishonesty, may warrant reporting to higher authorities immediately, as these behaviors might be known to others in the department.
- Concerns related to grading are suggested to be better addressed with the department head, who may have more relevant expertise.
- It is noted that substantial evidence will likely be required to substantiate any claims against a faculty member.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the appropriate escalation path for concerns, indicating a lack of consensus on the best approach.
Contextual Notes
The discussion does not clarify specific types of concerns that might dictate different responses, nor does it address the potential implications of reporting procedures on the individuals involved.
Who May Find This Useful
Students or staff members considering reporting concerns about faculty behavior or performance may find this discussion relevant.
- #2
radou
Homework Helper
- 3,149
- 8
That depends on the type of your concern. 
- #3
leon1127
- 484
- 0
I usually go to the low one first. If the problem was not resolved, the next person I shall see will be the president of school.
- #4
kdinser
- 335
- 2
If it's something crazy like, he/she is hitting on you or flat out lying to you about something important, you probably have to go higher up because his/her antics are almost certainly well known and accepted by their coworkers and immediate superiors.
If it is something grade related, you may be better off going to the head of the department who will be much better qualified to evaluate the difference between a fair and unfair grade then someone outside the department.
Either way, it’s going to take a lot more then your word to convince anyone that the professor has done something wrong, be prepared to provide lots of evidence to support your case.
If it is something grade related, you may be better off going to the head of the department who will be much better qualified to evaluate the difference between a fair and unfair grade then someone outside the department.
Either way, it’s going to take a lot more then your word to convince anyone that the professor has done something wrong, be prepared to provide lots of evidence to support your case.
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