Chemistry professors not only teach the subject but also conduct research, develop lesson plans, create tests, and participate in other faculty activities. They may also serve on a board that governs the chemistry department and work on getting published.
While a chemistry teacher’s main job is to teach chemistry, the real job can involve much more than that. Many professors not only teach the subject but also conduct research in their chosen fields. In addition, some chemistry professors will also help run the chemistry department, liaise with the rest of the university, and participate in other faculty activities.
The level at which a chemistry professor teaches can be determined by a number of different factors, including experience, college type, and interest. Those just beginning their teaching careers can start at a junior college or teach basic chemistry classes at the freshman and sophomore levels. These teachers are often referred to as probationary or assistant teachers. Those who gain experience and respect within the field can be given a tenure, where many jobs are awarded based on interest and seniority.
To teach more effectively, a chemistry teacher often develops lesson plans, which include not only lectures and homework, but also labs and demonstrations. Based on the information presented in the lectures, along with the information presented in the directed readings, the chemistry teacher creates tests to ensure that students are adequately learning the material. Any student who does not meet a certain standard may be recommended for tutoring or other special services.
Typically, a chemistry teacher spends 40-50% of the time in the classroom actually teaching. While it might seem like teachers have a lot of free time on their hands, other tasks often keep them very busy. The rest of the time is spent on making lesson plans, office hours, grading papers, and other assigned tasks.
Teaching, while an important part of the job, may not be the only duty a chemistry professor has at a college or university. Eventually, the teacher may be invited to serve on a board that governs the chemistry department or science faculty of a particular school. In this capacity, the teacher is responsible for overseeing budgets, making projections, and ensuring adequate supplies are kept on hand.
In addition to these roles, a chemistry professor may also be working to get published in a number of different ways. Some may be conducting research on chemical reactions and processes for scientific journals or other publications. Others write textbooks for chemistry classes, both in college and high school. This usually happens in addition to teaching your regular class schedule.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
