Palomar College's Distinguished Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching

Carlos von Son, Ph.D.

Multicultural Studies and World Languages

The committee meets and chooses the finalists (4 full-time and 5 adjunct) based on nominations, student evaluations, and each candidate's acceptance statement. The finalists are then interviewed by the committee. 

The award is presented to one part-time lecturer and to one  full-time faculty. The Distinguished Faculty Award Committee decides based on  the following criteria for the recipients of the award: 

Demonstrates subject matter expertise and currency.

Enthusiastic about the subject matter and about teaching in general.

Effective utilization of a variety of teaching techniques.

Clear and effective communication of course material.

Willingness to meet with students outside of class and/or provides a means for students to receive assistance.

Respectful of all students.

Challenges, motivates, and encourages students to think independently.

Creates a strong desire in students to learn more about the subject matter.

Guides and mentors students in making successful life/career choices.

Organized and prepared in presenting classroom material and information.

Creates a safe learning environment where students feel comfortable so that they can ask questions, disagree with the instructor, or ask for further clarification.

Sets high standards for student learning.

Involved in the community beyond Palomar College.

The committee also bases the recipients based on these questions for the student survey that will be specific to the Distinguished Faculty Award. The questions are:

Shows interest in and enthusiasm for the subject.

Treats all students with respect.

Is willing to help when needed.

Reflects strong knowledge of the subject matter.

Presents material in a clear and well-organized manner.

Encourages participation, discussion, and questions.

Makes the class interesting for me, given the topic.

Goes beyond the textbook content to provide current relevance or deeper insights.

Challenges and encourages students to think independently.

Provides fair and understandable answers to students’ questions.

Presents the material in an engaging and challenging manner.

Uses a variety of teaching methods that take into account the diverse learning styles of students.

I feel like I am learning a lot in this course.

Considering the instructors I have had at Palomar College, I would rate this instructor as exceptional.