25 Adjunct Professor Interview Questions and Answers

An adjunct professor is a part-time college instructor who is not on the tenure track. Adjuncts are often hired to teach specific courses that are not related to their field of study.

If you’re thinking about becoming an adjunct professor, you’ll need to be prepared to answer some questions about your teaching experience and your qualifications. In this article, we’ll provide you with some sample questions and answers that you can use to help you prepare for your next job interview.

1. Are you comfortable teaching a class with a large number of students?

Adjunct professors often teach large classes, and employers want to make sure you’re comfortable with this. If you have experience teaching a class of over 100 students, share that information in your answer.

Example: “Absolutely! I have extensive experience teaching large classes, and I am confident in my ability to manage a classroom of any size. In my current role as an Adjunct Professor, I teach classes with up to 40 students. This has allowed me to develop strong communication skills, which are essential for effectively engaging with a large group of people.

I also understand the importance of creating a learning environment that is both stimulating and supportive. To achieve this, I use a variety of teaching methods such as lectures, discussions, and activities to keep students engaged. I also make sure to provide individual attention when needed by offering office hours or one-on-one meetings.”

2. What are some methods you use to engage your students and motivate them to learn?

Adjunct professors often have to work with a wide range of students, some of whom may be more motivated than others. Employers ask this question to make sure you know how to motivate your students and keep them engaged in the classroom. In your answer, explain two or three techniques you use to help all types of students learn.

Example: “I believe that engaging students and motivating them to learn is essential for a successful learning environment. My approach to teaching involves creating an interactive, stimulating atmosphere in the classroom. I strive to make my classes interesting and enjoyable by using a variety of methods such as discussion-based activities, hands-on projects, and multimedia presentations.

I also emphasize the importance of student participation and collaboration. I encourage students to ask questions, engage in dialogue with their peers, and work together on group assignments. This helps create a sense of community within the class and encourages active learning. Finally, I provide feedback and support to ensure that each student feels comfortable and confident in their ability to succeed.”

3. How do you handle a situation where a student is disruptive in class?

Adjunct professors often teach in a variety of settings, including community colleges and online. In some cases, they may have to handle disruptive students who are not following the rules or disrupting other students’ learning experience. Your answer should show that you can remain calm under pressure and enforce consequences for inappropriate behavior.

Example: “When it comes to handling a disruptive student in class, I believe that the most important thing is to maintain a sense of calm and professionalism. First, I would try to address the issue directly with the student by speaking to them privately and asking if there is anything they need help with or any reason why they are being disruptive. If the disruption persists, then I would take further action such as issuing a warning or having a meeting with the student’s parents or guardians. Finally, if the behavior continues, I would consider suspending the student from class until their issues can be resolved. My goal is always to create an environment where students feel safe, respected, and able to learn without interruption.”

4. What is your experience in the field you will be teaching?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your background and how it relates to the position. It’s important to show that you have relevant experience in the field, but also that you are passionate about teaching others what you know.

Example: “I have been teaching in the field of Adjunct Professor for over 10 years. I have taught a variety of courses, from introductory to advanced levels. My experience has included both traditional and online classes, as well as hybrid formats. I am also experienced in developing course materials and assessments that align with course objectives.

I am passionate about helping students reach their potential and have developed innovative strategies to engage learners. I strive to create an environment where students can feel comfortable asking questions and participating in class discussions. I also believe in providing feedback on student work in order to help them improve their skills and knowledge.”

5. Provide an example of a time you had to manage a difficult student and what you did to resolve the situation.

As an adjunct professor, you may encounter students who are disrespectful or disruptive in class. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience handling these types of situations and can provide them with a specific example of how you resolved the issue. In your answer, try to describe what steps you took to resolve the situation while also emphasizing your ability to remain calm under pressure.

Example: “I recently had a situation with a student who was struggling to keep up with the course material. He was falling behind and becoming increasingly frustrated, which was causing disruption in class. To resolve the situation, I took him aside after class one day and asked if he needed any help or resources to better understand the material.

He mentioned that he was having difficulty understanding some of the concepts, so I offered to set up additional tutoring sessions outside of class for him. During these sessions, I worked closely with him to break down complex topics into simpler concepts that he could more easily comprehend. After several weeks of extra tutoring, his grades began to improve and he was able to stay on track with the rest of the class.”

6. If you had the opportunity to teach a class you are passionate about, what subject would you choose and why?

This question is a great way to show your passion for the subject you are teaching and can help employers understand why you chose this career path. When answering, it can be helpful to mention any specific experiences or qualifications that make you qualified to teach this class.

Example: “If I had the opportunity to teach a class that I am passionate about, I would choose to teach a course on data science. Data science is an incredibly important and rapidly growing field of study, and I believe it has the potential to revolutionize many industries. As someone who has been working in this area for several years, I have seen firsthand how powerful data-driven insights can be. Not only do they help us make better decisions, but they also provide us with valuable information about our customers and markets.

I am passionate about teaching students how to use data science tools and techniques to gain meaningful insights from large datasets. My experience in the field has given me a deep understanding of the various methods used in data analysis, such as machine learning algorithms, statistical modeling, and predictive analytics. With my knowledge, I could create engaging lessons that will give students the skills they need to become successful data scientists. Furthermore, I am excited to share my enthusiasm for data science with others and inspire them to pursue careers in this field.”

7. What would you do if you realized you were not prepared to teach a class on the first day of classes?

This question is designed to assess your honesty and integrity. It also shows the interviewer how you would handle a challenging situation. In your answer, be honest about what you would do in this situation and demonstrate that you have the skills and knowledge to teach the class.

Example: “If I realized I was not prepared to teach a class on the first day of classes, I would take immediate action. First, I would assess the situation and determine what materials or resources I needed in order to be ready for the next class. This could include reviewing course material, researching additional topics, or organizing my lecture notes.

Once I had identified the necessary steps, I would then prioritize them so that I could ensure I was fully prepared for the upcoming class. I would also reach out to colleagues for advice or assistance if needed. Finally, I would communicate with my students about the delay and provide them with an updated timeline for when they can expect new material.”

8. How well do you communicate with other faculty members and administrators on campus?

As an adjunct professor, you may need to communicate with other faculty members and administrators on campus. This question can help the interviewer determine how well you work with others in a team setting. Use your answer to highlight your communication skills and ability to collaborate with others.

Example: “I have excellent communication skills and I’m very comfortable interacting with faculty members and administrators on campus. In my current role as an Adjunct Professor, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with a variety of people from different departments and backgrounds. I believe that effective communication is essential in any professional setting, so I make sure to be clear and concise when communicating with others.

I also take the time to listen carefully to what other people are saying and try to understand their perspective before responding. This helps me build strong relationships with colleagues and ensures that everyone is on the same page. I’m confident that I can bring this same level of communication to your institution and help foster an environment of collaboration and understanding.”

9. Do you have any experience creating course syllabi or other course materials?

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience with academic coursework and how you might approach teaching a new class. If you have previous experience creating syllabi or other materials, describe what steps you took to create them and how they helped you organize your thoughts for the course.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience creating course syllabi and other course materials. During my time as an Adjunct Professor at XYZ University, I was responsible for designing the syllabus for a variety of courses. This included researching the subject matter to ensure that the content was up-to-date and relevant. I also created supplemental materials such as lecture slides, handouts, and assignments. My goal was always to create engaging learning experiences for students that would help them succeed in their studies.

I am confident that my skills and knowledge will be beneficial to your institution if given the opportunity. I understand the importance of creating effective course materials and strive to provide students with the best possible educational experience.”

10. When is the best time to start preparing for the next semester?

This question can help the interviewer determine how much time you plan to spend on your job and when you’re available for work. It’s important to show that you understand the importance of starting early, especially if you have a lot of course materials to create or students to contact.

Example: “The best time to start preparing for the next semester is as soon as possible. I believe that it’s important to begin planning ahead of time in order to ensure a successful semester. By starting early, I’m able to review course materials and create lesson plans that are tailored to my students’ needs. This also allows me to develop relationships with my students and build trust before the semester begins. Furthermore, by beginning preparations early, I am able to stay organized throughout the semester and make sure that all deadlines are met.”

11. We want to improve our online presence. How would you use social media to promote your classes?

Social media is a great way to promote your classes and connect with students. Employers want to know that you can use social media effectively, so they may ask this question to see how you would promote the school’s courses on platforms like Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. In your answer, explain which social media platforms you’re comfortable using and give examples of how you’ve used them in the past to help others learn about different topics.

Example: “I believe social media is an effective tool for promoting classes and engaging with students. I have experience using various platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to reach out to potential students and build relationships. For example, I would create content that highlights the benefits of taking my class, post regularly about upcoming lectures or assignments, and use hashtags to increase visibility. I would also encourage current students to share their experiences in the class on their own social media accounts. Finally, I would look into creating a dedicated page for the course where people can find more information and ask questions.”

12. Describe your teaching style.

Employers ask this question to learn more about your teaching methods and how you interact with students. When answering, it can be helpful to describe a specific time when you used a different teaching style that was successful.

Example: “My teaching style is interactive, engaging, and student-centered. I strive to create an environment in which my students feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their ideas. My classes are often structured around discussions and activities that allow for collaboration between the students and myself. I believe this encourages critical thinking and helps build a strong learning community.

I also like to incorporate technology into my lessons whenever possible. By using online tools such as video lectures, virtual whiteboards, and discussion boards, I can provide my students with a more dynamic learning experience. I’m always open to trying new methods of instruction if it means providing a better educational experience for my students.”

13. What makes you stand out from other adjunct professors?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you can benefit their school. To answer this question, think of a specific skill or quality that makes you unique as an adjunct professor. You can also share a story about how you used this skill or quality in the classroom.

Example: “I believe my experience and qualifications make me stand out from other adjunct professors. I have a PhD in Education, with an emphasis on curriculum development, as well as extensive teaching experience at the college level. My research has been published in several peer-reviewed journals, and I am highly knowledgeable about both traditional and online learning platforms.

Additionally, I bring to the table strong interpersonal skills that allow me to effectively communicate with students and colleagues alike. I understand the importance of creating a positive learning environment for all students, and strive to create engaging lesson plans that challenge them while also providing support. Finally, I’m passionate about staying up-to-date with the latest educational trends and technologies, which allows me to provide students with the most current information available.”

14. Which teaching methods have you found to be the most effective?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you plan your lessons and evaluate student progress. It can also show them which methods you prefer over others, so they can understand what teaching style you have. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a few different strategies that you use in class and why you find them effective.

Example: “I have found that the most effective teaching methods are those that engage students in active learning. This includes activities such as group work, discussions, and problem-solving exercises. These types of activities allow students to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios while also developing critical thinking skills. I also believe that incorporating technology into the classroom is beneficial for student engagement. For example, using online tools like discussion boards or video conferencing can help create a more interactive learning environment. Finally, I think it’s important to provide feedback on assignments and assessments so that students understand how they are progressing and what areas need improvement.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of being an adjunct professor?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the role and how you can be successful in it. You should discuss what you think is most important about being a professor, but also include some specific skills or qualities that are relevant to adjunct professors.

Example: “I believe the most important aspect of being an adjunct professor is having a passion for teaching and learning. As an adjunct professor, it is my responsibility to ensure that students are engaged in their coursework and have access to the resources they need to succeed. I strive to create an environment where students can feel comfortable asking questions, exploring new ideas, and engaging with one another.

In addition, I understand the importance of staying up-to-date on current trends and best practices in education. By keeping abreast of the latest developments in the field, I am able to provide students with the most relevant and useful information possible. Finally, I recognize the value of building strong relationships with both students and colleagues. Through open communication and collaboration, I strive to foster an atmosphere of respect and trust.”

16. How often do you update your lesson plans?

Adjunct professors often have to update their lesson plans for each class they teach. This question helps the interviewer determine how much time you spend on your job and whether you are organized enough to complete this task regularly. Use examples from your previous experience in which you had to create new lesson plans or modify existing ones.

Example: “I believe in staying up to date with the latest trends and best practices when it comes to teaching. I make sure to update my lesson plans on a regular basis, usually at least once every semester. This allows me to keep up with any changes or new developments in the field that may be relevant to my students. In addition, I also review my lesson plans after each class to see if there are any areas where I can further improve them. Finally, I use feedback from both my students and colleagues to ensure that my lesson plans remain effective and engaging.”

17. There is a change to the curriculum that impacts the subject you were planning to teach. How do you react?

This question can help an interviewer understand how you react to change and whether or not you are flexible. It is important to show that you can adapt quickly to new situations, especially if the school has a lot of changes in its curriculum each year.

Example: “When I hear of a change to the curriculum, my first reaction is one of curiosity. I want to understand why the change was made and what impact it will have on the subject I am teaching. I believe that this type of change can bring new opportunities for learning and growth, so I approach it with an open mind.

Once I understand the changes, I assess how they might affect my lesson plans. If necessary, I adjust my plans accordingly while still ensuring that students are able to learn the material in a meaningful way. I also take into account any feedback from other faculty members or administrators who may be impacted by the change.

I strive to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in my field, so I’m comfortable adapting to changes in the curriculum. I’m confident that my expertise and experience as an Adjunct Professor make me well-equipped to handle any changes that come my way.”

18. What strategies do you use to ensure that your students are engaged and learning?

Adjunct professors often have to create their own strategies for engaging students and encouraging them to learn. Employers ask this question to see if you have any unique ideas that can help your students succeed in the classroom. In your answer, share a few techniques you use to keep students engaged and motivated. Explain how these methods help students retain information and apply it to real-world situations.

Example: “I believe that student engagement and learning are the most important aspects of teaching. To ensure my students are engaged, I use a variety of strategies in my classroom. First, I strive to create an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and participating in discussions. I also make sure to provide clear expectations for each lesson so that students know what is expected of them.

In addition, I incorporate different types of activities into my lessons such as group work, hands-on projects, and problem-solving tasks. This helps keep students interested and encourages them to think critically about the material. Finally, I always take time to review topics from previous classes and offer additional resources if needed. By doing this, I am able to reinforce concepts and help students better understand the material.”

19. How have you handled a situation where a majority of the class is not understanding the material being taught?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you adapt to challenges and use your problem-solving skills. Use examples from previous experiences where you helped students understand a concept or encouraged them to ask questions.

Example: “When I have encountered a situation where the majority of my class is not understanding the material, I take a step back and assess what could be causing the confusion. Is it because the material is too difficult or are there other factors at play? Once I identify the root cause, I can then adjust my teaching style to better suit the needs of the students.

For example, if the material is too difficult for the class, I may break down the concepts into smaller chunks that are easier to understand. I also make sure to provide plenty of examples so that the students can see how the concepts apply in real-world scenarios. If there are other factors such as language barriers or lack of motivation, I will work with the students individually to ensure they have the necessary resources and support to succeed.”

20. Describe how you would handle a student who comes to class unprepared or has missed multiple classes.

As an adjunct professor, you may have students who miss class or come unprepared. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle these situations in a way that is productive for both the student and yourself. In your answer, try to emphasize how you would help the student learn the material while also maintaining control of the classroom.

Example: “I believe that it is important to be understanding and supportive when dealing with students who are unprepared or have missed multiple classes. I would start by having a conversation with the student to understand why they were not prepared or why they had missed class. This could help me identify any underlying issues that may be preventing them from being successful in my course.

Once I have identified the root cause of the issue, I can work with the student to develop an action plan to ensure their success going forward. This could include providing additional resources such as tutoring, extra credit opportunities, or other academic support services. I also think it’s important to set clear expectations for the student so that they know what is expected of them moving forward. Finally, I would make sure to check in with the student regularly to monitor their progress and provide ongoing support.”

21. Do you have any experience with distance learning or online teaching platforms?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience with their institution’s teaching platform. If they ask this question, it is likely that your role will involve some online instruction or distance learning. In your answer, explain how you feel about working in an online classroom and highlight any relevant experience you may have.

Example: “Yes, I have experience with distance learning and online teaching platforms. In my current role as an Adjunct Professor, I teach a course that is offered both in-person and online. I am very familiar with the different tools and technologies used to facilitate remote learning, such as video conferencing, webinars, and virtual classrooms. I also have experience creating engaging content for online courses, including lecture slides, quizzes, and other interactive activities. Finally, I have extensive knowledge of various Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as Blackboard, Canvas, and Moodle. My familiarity with these systems allows me to quickly get up to speed on any new platform or technology that may be required for the job.”

22. How do you stay organized when preparing for a new semester?

As an adjunct professor, you may have to prepare for a variety of classes and grade assignments. Employers ask this question to make sure you can stay organized while working with many different students. In your answer, explain how you use technology or other organizational methods to keep track of important dates and deadlines.

Example: “I stay organized when preparing for a new semester by breaking down the tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. I start by creating a timeline of important dates and deadlines that need to be met throughout the semester. This helps me keep track of my progress and ensures that I don’t miss any key milestones. I also create a detailed syllabus outlining the course objectives and expectations for each student. Finally, I make sure to review all materials prior to class in order to ensure that I am well-prepared for each lecture. By following this approach, I can effectively manage my time and resources while providing an engaging learning experience for my students.”

23. Provide an example of a lesson plan you have created in the past.

An adjunct professor may be responsible for creating lesson plans and teaching students. Employers ask this question to learn more about your experience with developing curriculum and how you plan lessons. In your answer, describe a specific example of a lesson plan you created in the past. Explain what steps you took to create it and why you chose those steps.

Example: “I have created many lesson plans in the past, each tailored to the specific needs of my students. For example, I recently designed a lesson plan for an introductory course on computer programming. The goal of this lesson was to introduce students to basic coding concepts and provide them with hands-on experience writing code.

To achieve this goal, I began by introducing key concepts such as variables, data types, and control structures. After that, I provided examples of how these concepts could be used in practice. Finally, I gave students time to work on their own projects using the skills they had learned. Throughout the lesson, I encouraged questions and offered guidance when needed.”

24. What techniques do you use to assess student performance?

Adjunct professors often use a variety of methods to assess student performance. Some may give written tests, while others may have students complete projects or presentations. Your answer should include the techniques you plan on using in your classroom and how they will benefit your students.

Example: “I use a variety of techniques to assess student performance. I believe that it is important to have multiple methods in order to get an accurate picture of how the students are doing.

One technique I like to use is formative assessments, such as quizzes and assignments. These help me gauge where my students are at with their understanding of the material and allow me to adjust my teaching accordingly.

Another method I use is summative assessments, such as exams and projects. This helps me measure how well the students have learned the material over the course of the semester.

Lastly, I also like to use feedback from both the students and myself. I ask for student input on what they think went well and what could be improved upon so that I can make adjustments to my teaching style if needed. I also provide feedback to the students on their performance throughout the semester.”

25. Are there any topics you feel uncomfortable teaching due to personal beliefs?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle teaching controversial topics. It’s important to be honest in your answer, but it’s also helpful to show that you’re willing to do what’s best for the students and the course material.

Example: “No, I do not feel uncomfortable teaching any topics due to personal beliefs. As an Adjunct Professor, I understand that my role is to provide students with the best education possible and therefore, I am open to teaching a variety of topics. I believe that it is important to remain objective when teaching and to present all sides of an argument in order for students to make informed decisions. Furthermore, I strive to create an environment where students can express their own opinions without fear of judgement or criticism. My goal is to foster critical thinking skills and encourage students to explore different perspectives.”