Evaluation of an Online Professional Development Program for Part-time Faculty

This study discusses the implementation and evaluation of a program of professional development for adjunct faculty at Ivy Tech Community College Region 9 through the application of Donald Kirkpatrick's four-level model of evaluation for professional development programs. This study specifically addressed the first three of Kirkpatrick's four levels - reactionary learning and behavior - by answering four research questions. The study used a largely qualitative research model centered on the framework of action research. Two cohorts of participants in the program were given the opportunity to participate in the study. Among other conclusions the study concluded that part-time faculty valued the opportunity to participate in a program of professional development. Evaluative results of the study as well as recommendations for further study are presented.