The business of higher education is knowledge. Faculty effort committed to these activities varies by field of study and university mission. Experienced faculty are the most important asset in OUS's portfolio. The majority of OUS students are taught by regular, full-time faculty. Since 1995, the teaching workforce has shifted slightly toward graduate assistants teaching fewer class sections and adjunct faculty teaching more.
Teaching is the major focus of faculty.
In an average 50 hours-plus work week, OUS faculty spend the largest portion of their time involved in teaching activities. Other time is spent in research and service activities. OUS faculty are productive. As a result of instruction, more than 12,500 students completed degrees in 1997 98. A number of OUS initiatives accelerated faculty productivity and effectiveness, including the establishment of an incentive fund in 1995 to 1997 to sponsor demonstration projects.