The role of a professor extends far beyond teaching and research outputs; it encompasses leadership, social impact, and the advancement of knowledge and technology for societal benefit. Professors are not merely academic achievers but are expected to lead research groups, mentor colleagues, contribute to public discourse, and foster a culture of collegiality. They play an instrumental role in transforming higher education institutions into centers of social progress. Consequently, assessing and promoting professors should consider a broad spectrum of contributions that align with institutional and societal goals.
Core Attributes and Assessment Criteria for Professors
Based on the expert thoughts provided, here is an analysis of what a professor should embody and how they should be assessed and promoted:
Academic Leadership and Scholarly Impact
Promotion should reflect a professor’s potential for future contributions, guided by their past accomplishments. This forward-looking approach focuses on a professor's capacity to drive ongoing research, innovation, and mentorship within their field. Academic leadership includes not only scholarly publications but also inspiring public engagement, fostering debate, and encouraging critical thinking in society. Professors should be seen as thought leaders with a vision for both their discipline and broader societal impact.Holistic Contributions to Knowledge and Society
Professors are expected to develop or challenge existing technologies and scientific approaches to facilitate economic, technological, and policy advancements. Their role is to generate new information that leads to evidence-based policy, informed decision-making, and sustainable development. Professors should be assessed on the tangible impact of their work, not just on quantitative metrics like citations and the h-index, which can sometimes lead to unintended consequences, such as the pursuit of quantity over quality in publications.Cultural Sensitivity in Scholarship
Academic assessment must consider the diverse cultures of scientific disciplines. Research outputs in some fields may be reflected in high-impact journal publications, while in others, impactful community-based projects or policy recommendations may hold more value. Therefore, publication standards and expectations must be discipline-sensitive, ensuring that a professor’s scholarly contributions align with the unique norms and practices of their field.Commitment to Mentorship and Institutional Growth
Professors should demonstrate a commitment to nurturing the next generation of academics and professionals. As mentors, they should not only lead research groups and consultancy teams but also guide younger colleagues and students. This mentorship role ensures the continuity of academic excellence and fosters a culture of knowledge sharing. Contribution to institutional growth through curriculum development, institutional partnerships, and community service further reflects a professor’s dedication to the broader mission of higher education.Measuring Social Impact and Incremental Progress
The ultimate goal of academic contributions is social progress, which universities should achieve incrementally. Professors, collectively and individually, contribute to this aim through impactful research, policy contributions, and the production of skilled, critical-thinking graduates who drive innovation and progress in industry, government, and education. Promotion criteria should emphasize a professor’s potential to bring about incremental, measurable improvements in these areas, which reflects the very purpose of higher education.(More from the experts in this YouTube Webinar)
Aligning with CHED and DBM Criteria for Professorship
The criteria set by the CHED and DBM for full professorships in Philippine SUCs provide a foundational framework, but a more nuanced, comprehensive approach may enhance the evaluation process:
Educational Qualifications
While a doctoral degree is generally required, there should be flexibility in recognizing substantial professional achievements in lieu of formal qualifications, especially in fields where practical expertise can significantly impact academia and society.Teaching Excellence and Mentorship
Teaching effectiveness, backed by student evaluations and peer reviews, is essential. Beyond standard metrics, evaluations could incorporate qualitative feedback, demonstrating a professor’s mentorship success and contributions to students’ long-term growth.Research Contributions and Scholarly Work
The emphasis on publications in high-impact journals aligns with global standards. However, a broadened view that values other forms of scholarly output (e.g., patents, applied research, and industry collaborations) would better capture the scope of a professor’s influence. Given the call to avoid overreliance on citation-based metrics, qualitative assessments, like peer evaluations and impact statements, can be used to highlight research relevance.Community Service and Extension Work
CHED’s recognition of community service is commendable, as it emphasizes the professor’s role in applying knowledge for societal benefit. Professors should be encouraged to participate in community engagement projects that address societal needs and bridge academic knowledge with practical solutions, reinforcing the university’s role in fostering social progress.Professional Development and Recognition
Continuous learning and active engagement in professional organizations contribute to a professor’s growth and ensure they stay abreast of advancements in their field. Recognition through awards and honors is valuable; however, promotions should not overly rely on accolades but instead focus on practical contributions and sustained impact within their field.Institutional and Academic Leadership
Professors are expected to lead in curriculum and program development, ensuring academic offerings remain relevant and impactful. They should also actively contribute to institutional growth, whether through administrative roles, strategic partnerships, or by cultivating an environment that values innovation and progress.
For a professor to be promoted, the evaluation should be multifaceted, focusing on teaching, research, community engagement, mentorship, and leadership. The CHED and DBM guidelines offer a sound foundation, but a broadened interpretation, attentive to academic leadership and social impact, will ensure that promotions reward professors who contribute meaningfully to both their institutions and society. This approach aligns with the overarching mission of higher education: to foster knowledge, innovation, and social progress.
Through a system that values diverse achievements, universities can cultivate a faculty that not only excels academically but also drives tangible societal progress, fulfilling the true purpose of the academe.