Professor Haley Draper not only teaches communications at AACC, she’s a student of cybersecurity—also at AACC.
Draper, who earned her associate degree in cybersecurity last year, said the classes taught her as much about teaching as they did about technology.
“I think getting to see how other professors have set up their online environments,” said Draper, who has taught at AACC for 10 years, “and how they structure assignments, and what they do as far as supporting materials and videos and things like that has really given me a great example of how I can better help my students.”
Every semester, dozens of professors double as students, learning about fields other than their own or indulging hobbies and interests. Like Draper, most say the experience has made them better teachers.
Professors pay student fees for their classes, but their tuition is free.
Andrea Zamora, director of the Center for Faculty and Staff Development, agreed that taking classes helps professors relate to their students.
“A few professors have reported taking classes in other disciplines with their students,” Zamora said. “They mention that it helps them see their students in a different way and develop new relationships with students.”
Plus, Zamora added, “By learning new content and teaching techniques, professors are better able to help students succeed.”
Draper noted professors treat their colleagues like students when they take classes.
“I was treated just like anybody else, of course,” Draper said. “And that’s definitely a code between professors. We would never go into a class and expect to be treated any differently.”
Jessica Mattingly, academic chair of communications, said she takes classes to “continue … my own personal enrichment. I’ve taken over 50 different classes here.”
Mattingly said she also takes classes to explore new hobbies, like paddleboarding and woodworking.
“I’m always looking for new outlets and activities,” Mattingly said. “So I think on the personal enrichment side … I have been exposed to such a variety of things.”
Lance Bowen, dean of the School of Science, Technology and Education, said he benefits from taking courses because they affect his teaching.
“As educators, you know, we’re in the business of teaching and learning,” said Bowen, who took an education class last semester. “And I think taking classes keeps you on your toes, specifically post-COVID. We’re in an era where education has really accelerated. We’ve done different things. We’re doing a lot of stuff that we weren’t able to do before. We have new resources at hand. And sitting in as a student gives you that perspective of what’s changed.”
Bowen added: “Being in the classroom is really important to maintain your relevancy.”
Sandy Jones, dean for the School of Continuing Education and Workforce Development, agreed.
“I think in general, additional education and training could always be a good thing,” Jones said. “I mean, it could make you a better teacher.”