Responding to Academic Culture: From Research Focused to Teaching Focused Culture

About Responding to Academic Culture: From Research Focused to Teaching Focused Culture

Abstract

Moving from one institution to another, particularly from a university to a college and vice versa in different geographical locations and cultures, as an academician may be painful and challenging. This could be due to differences in philosophies, policies, and practices. What are the potential problems? What are the surviving strategies? How can it affect faith, relationships and academic reputation? How can mistakes be avoided? What can be done to make such changes pleasant and fulfilling? In this paper, the transitional experience of moving from one institution to another institution with different culture shared. The paper highlights a number of difficulties experienced, strategies adopted and lessons learned. In totality, the experience shows that absolute reliance on Christ for direction at all times is the main ingredient for success of a Christian and for overcoming whatever problem one encounter. Furthermore, the paper advocates being an example of believers by following in the steps of the master teacher (Jesus) and trusting Him for His promises, because faithful is He that has promised for He will perform it.