Rumors, Myths and Urban Legends
What Part-Time Educators
Won’t Hear Anywhere Else
Part-time teaching in academia has its share of tall tales—from ‘easy money’ to the rumored magic of ‘objective’ rubrics. While these ideas are entertaining, they can fuel misunderstandings about what it means to teach adjunct.
Here are the top seven rumors, myths, and urban legends about part-time teaching—and why they’re off the mark:
“Part-time teachers aren’t as qualified as full-timers.”
Many adjuncts have advanced degrees and deep industry experience—that’s exactly why departments hire them.“Teaching part-time is an easy side hustle.”
Juggling lesson prep, grading, and student support takes serious time and energy, often fueled by passion rather than paychecks.“Part-time schedules are always flexible.”
Departments still have needs, and most part-timers juggle multiple jobs (or personal responsibilities), making “flexibility” a generous term.“They only teach because they ‘can’t do.’”
In reality, many part-time instructors are industry professionals bringing fresh, real-world insights straight into the classroom.“It’s easy to jump from part-time to a full-time gig.”
Full-time positions in academia (especially tenured ones) are famously competitive. Even the most experienced adjuncts can face tough odds in making the switch.“They’re less committed than full-time professors.”
Most part-timers balance multiple roles—while still pouring dedication into every lecture, discussion, and office hour.“You can’t connect with a part-time teacher.”
Students often find adjuncts relatable and approachable precisely because they’re immersed in discipline-specific world work alongside teaching.
Before Your Next Class:
Next time you hear a rumored “cakewalk” part-time teaching schedule or how some magical robot buried deep within an LMS is grading papers via proxy, remember: part-time professors are just as passionate, qualified, and impactful as their full-time counterparts. So many of us do it for the love of teaching!
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