Content area
Abstract
Although part-time faculty positions in higher education continue to increase, reports reveal the lack of acceptance and valuing of part-time faculty across higher education institutions. Yet few qualitative studies exist that explore the experiences and perceptions of part-time faculty within their academic cultures. This qualitative case study specifically investigated part-time faculty members’ perceptions of belonging or exclusion within their higher education institutions. The study was based on interviews with 14 part-time faculty members from two separate higher education institutions who represented a range of years of teaching experience and disciplines. The findings revealed that, in general, part-time faculty perceived a sense of belonging when their socio-emotional needs were met and reciprocal relationships were present within their academic culture. Additionally, part-time faculty who desired and dedicated energy towards involvement in their academic cultures had a sense of belonging.