Surviving and Thriving as a New Faculty Member: Insider Tips from Dr. Talley

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Welcome back to another exciting episode of the "Good Teaching Podcast"! Today, we are thrilled to have Dr. Jessye Talley, an esteemed assistant professor of industrial and systems engineering at Morgan State University, join us as our special guest. Throughout this engaging episode, Dr. Talley shares her remarkable academic journey, teaching strategies, and invaluable advice for new faculty members, making it a must-listen for educators and students alike.

Dr. Jessye Talley's Academic Journey

Intriguingly, Dr. Talley's passion for fashion design as a child eventually led her down an unexpected path towards engineering. The allure of designing practical and innovative solutions motivated her to pursue industrial and systems engineering. Along the way, she encountered inspiring mentors and role models who encouraged her to follow her dreams and forge ahead in her chosen field.

Teaching Strategies: Fostering Problem-Solving Skills

Dr. Talley adopts a student-centered approach to engineering education, empowering her students to take charge of their learning. One of her successful strategies is the implementation of the flipped classroom model. By introducing foundational concepts before class and using in-class time for problem-solving exercises, students actively engage with the material and benefit from collaborative learning experiences.

Encouraging problem-solving exercises not only hones their technical skills but also instills confidence in their abilities. Dr. Talley prioritizes creating a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable exploring their ideas and asking questions. This nurturing approach enables students to overcome challenges and thrive in their academic journey.

Advice for New Faculty Members

Course Preparation

Dr. Talley emphasizes the importance of thorough course preparation and organization. By investing time upfront, educators can streamline their teaching process and focus more on engaging with students. She suggests a gradual approach to course development, allowing for continuous improvements based on student needs and feedback.

Establishing Clear Communication with Students

Recognizing the diversity of learning styles among students, Dr. Talley highlights the need for explicit guidelines for course communication. Whether through email, virtual office hours, or face-to-face interactions, clear communication fosters an inclusive learning environment. Building rapport and trust with students through open dialogue creates a comfortable space for learning and growth.

Achieving Work-Life Integration in Academia

Dr. Talley advocates for work-life integration over traditional work-life balance. She shares practical tips, such as leveraging learning management systems to streamline course content, enabling educators to focus on interactions with students. Additionally, setting boundaries and scheduling tasks effectively ensure a healthy work-life balance, promoting overall well-being and success in academia.

Conclusion

Dr. Jessye Talley's journey from fashion design to industrial and systems engineering serves as a beacon of inspiration for students pursuing diverse academic paths. Her student-centered teaching strategies, rooted in problem-solving and support, are invaluable for educators seeking to enhance their students' learning experiences. Moreover, her advice for new faculty members reinforces the significance of preparation, communication, and work-life integration in fostering a successful and fulfilling teaching career. Let's take Dr. Talley's wisdom to heart and create a transformative impact in our classrooms and beyond. Happy teaching!