Apresentação dossiê: docência no ensino superior

Abstract

Teaching in higher education should be the object of research of the institutions and their managers, due to its importance for the pillars of teaching, research and extension. We will deal in this thematic dossier with what is happening, at this moment, in relation to teaching, involving the nuances of this professional performance in the political, pedagogical and socio-cultural fields. The higher education professor is in charge of and fulfills an extensive professional program, which goes beyond the elaboration and teaching of classes. In the daily life of the university, the professors are responsible for the participation and coordination of research projects, preparation of reports, orientation of course conclusion works, production of scientific articles and other activities, supporting the tripod of teaching, research and extension. Exercising these professional activities requires time, energy and dedication. In view of the above, there is also a concern to improve the pedagogical training of teachers in higher education, which is carried out in postgraduate courses stricto sensu and has proven to be a momentarily valid alternative, however there are controversies and questions.