Discussion Guide for Departments and Colleges about Engaged Scholarship in Promotion and Tenure

In 2001, Michigan State University revised its reappointment, promotion, and tenure form to encourage faculty members to report engaged scholarship during the review process. While such revisions in institutional policies are necessary, they are not sufficient for shifting academic culture at college and department levels, where the significant decisions about reappointment, promotion, and tenure often reside. On-going discussions between tenure track faculty members and administrators about how scholarly outreach and engagement is interpreted and valued in their disciplines, departments, and colleges is critical. Based on this study's findings and the literature associated with engagement and promotion and tenure, the authors recommend the following guide as a set of discussion points to be used with junior faculty, faculty mentors, promotion and tenure committee members, department chairs, and college promotion review committee members. By using the principles of dialogue, it is possible to create common understandings that create a supportive climate for engaged scholarship.