PhD/Doctoral Teaching in Higher Education Rubric Description This rubric is designed to evaluate the teaching effectiveness of PhD and doctoral candidates in higher education settings. It assesses key competencies essential for fostering student learning; engagement; and academic success. The criteria emphasize pedagogical skills; instructional design; and reflective teaching practices that contribute to a high-quality educational experience. The rubric evaluates course planning and preparation; ensuring instructors align learning objectives with assessments and instructional strategies. Effective teaching requires clear communication of expectations; well-structured content; and the integration of current research and best practices. Instructors should demonstrate the ability to adapt materials to diverse learning needs; promoting inclusivity and accessibility. Classroom engagement and delivery are critical components. Instructors are assessed on their ability to facilitate active learning; encourage critical thinking; and maintain an interactive and supportive learning environment. Strong verbal and nonverbal communication skills; along with responsiveness to student questions; enhance comprehension and participation. Assessment and feedback practices are examined to ensure fairness; clarity; and constructive guidance. Instructors should provide timely; meaningful evaluations that help students track progress and improve performance. The rubric also values reflective teaching; encouraging instructors to analyze their methods; seek professional development; and incorporate student feedback for continuous improvement. Finally; the rubric considers professionalism and ethical conduct; including adherence to academic integrity; respect for diverse perspectives; and commitment to student success. By meeting these standards; PhD and doctoral instructors contribute to a rigorous; supportive; and intellectually stimulating academic environment. This rubric serves as a tool for self-assessment; peer review; and institutional evaluation to enhance teaching quality in higher education.
