The need and rationale for interactive and supportive faculty development programs
in institutions of higher education has long been documented in the literature and on
higher education campuses. The purpose of this research is to examine faculty
development programs and concepts that engage faculty members in interactive
activities while addressing individual professional development needs. This research
includes a discussion of peer coaching, learning communities, and informal and formal
mentoring as examples of faculty development programs. Various adult education
theories and principles that can be incorporated into programs to engage faculty
enriches this discussion of faculty development programs.