Academic Freedom: The Heartbeat of Higher Education
As a fresh academic year unfolds, I’m reminded of the day I first stepped into the role of a faculty member. I recall the initial thrill of being addressed as “Doctor” or “Professor” and the accompanying swell of pride. However, with that pride came a profound realization: I was entrusted with guiding a room full of eager minds. I vividly remember my first lecture on research methods in psychology. My enthusiasm for research was evident, even if it left some students puzzled, their expressions suggesting they found my passion unusual. When a student asked, “Why are you so passionate about data and research?”, I knew that merely saying “Because it’s cool” wouldn’t be enough. I spoke of the thrill of discovery and the joy of delving into concepts they had only heard of before. In that moment, I was doing more than teaching a subject; I was sharing the essence of academic freedom.
In higher education, ‘academic freedom’ is paramount, much like a heartbeat is essential for sustaining life. It empowers scholars, including professors and students, to pursue knowledge without fear of censorship. This freedom extends beyond individual rights; it’s crucial for the advancement of the academic community and student success. Just as the heartbeat pumps blood to every part of the body, nourishing and sustaining it, academic freedom nourishes and sustains the intellectual life of a higher education institution, driving innovation, critical thinking, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Faculty autonomy, integral to academic freedom, allows educators the latitude to design their courses, select research topics, and employ the most effective teaching methods, while also recognizing the need for guidance and support from academic leadership. This autonomy is not just the freedom from external interference, such as political pressure or censorship (negative liberty), but also the freedom to engage in deep, meaningful teaching and the obligation to design courses well (positive liberty). Given this freedom and support, educators are more inclined to adopt innovative methods, prompt students to think critically, and pursue knowledge beyond their discipline and foster lifelong learners.
Such a learning environment significantly boosts student success. Exposure to diverse experiences, a variety of ideas, and the encouragement to scrutinize them sharpens students’ critical thinking skills. An education rooted in academic freedom equips students to tackle challenges in their professional and personal development, preparing their students to succeed in a multifaceted world.
As I transition from a faculty role to what is often referred to as ‘the dark side’ of administration, taking on the role of Director of Teaching and Learning Excellence, I’m constantly reminded of academic freedom’s significance and the supportive role CELTT plays. Much like a doctor who provides guidance on maintaining health or a vitamin that supplements our well-being, CELTT collaborates with faculty to develop innovative programs, fostering faculty growth and promoting evidence-based teaching practices. This partnership ensures a balance between teaching freedom and upholding educational standards. With CELTT’s support, faculty can hone their pedagogical skills, enriching the student learning experience.
Reflecting on my academic journey’s inception, from my first ‘Doctor’ salutation to my current role at UBalt, the importance of academic freedom resonates even more. It’s interwoven into every lecture, research project, and classroom discussion. As I embrace a role centered on supporting faculty, the mission remains steadfast: championing academic freedom. This freedom kindles educators’ passion, nurtures students’ critical thinking, and drives the academic community. Just as the heart requires regular check-ups and support to maintain its health and rhythm, academic freedom requires support and oversight to ensure it is used responsibly and effectively. Without this support, just as a heart can get out of sync, the meaning of academic freedom can be lost, and the principle can be compromised, impacting the vitality and integrity of higher education. As we welcome each new academic year, we must cherish academic freedom’s pivotal role and the endless possibilities it offers both educators and students, while also recognizing the need for support to ensure its proper use and stay true to its meaning. So, let us ring the bell, and get excited about the pursuit of excellence in teaching and learning!
Cheers,
Jessica
