Tenured Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
tenured
[หtษnjษrd ]
Definition
academic position
The term 'tenured' refers to a permanent and protected academic position, often in universities, which provides the holder with job security and the freedom to teach, research, and express ideas without undue external pressure. Tenured professors typically undergo a rigorous evaluation process, which may include peer reviews, publication records, and teaching effectiveness. Once granted tenure, an individual cannot be easily dismissed without just cause, ensuring academic freedom and a stable environment for scholarly pursuits.
Synonyms
established, permanent, secured.
Examples of usage
- She was awarded tenure after many years of hard work.
- Tenured professors often have more freedom in their research.
- The university is known for its strong tenure track system.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Education
- Tenured positions are often seen as a reward for excellence in teaching and research within academic institutions.
- The tenure process typically involves rigorous review of a professorโs work, which can take several years.
- Having tenure can empower educators to pursue controversial or innovative subjects without fear of losing their jobs.
Cultural Significance
- In some cultures, tenure is viewed as a protection of academic freedom, essential for a democratic society.
- Tenured professors can play key roles in shaping curricula and influencing the future of education.
- The concept is sometimes debated regarding whether it protects poorly performing faculty or how it impacts university dynamics.
Legal Aspects
- Once tenured, a professor has legal rights to their position, making it difficult to terminate them without due cause.
- The tenure system is a subject of legal scrutiny, often addressing issues of discrimination and academic freedom.
- Tenure policies can vary significantly between institutions and different countries.
Controversies
- Critics argue that tenure can shield ineffective teachers and creates a lack of accountability in certain educational systems.
- Some universities have begun to explore alternative employment structures to replace or modify the traditional tenure system.
- Debates about tenure often reflect broader discussions on labor rights in various fields, not just education.
Origin of 'tenured'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'tenure' comes from the Latin word 'tenere,' which means 'to hold' or 'to keep.'
- It originated in relation to land ownership and the idea of 'holding' a position or land for a long time.
- In academic contexts, it began to emerge in the late 19th century as a way to secure job stability for professors.
The word 'tenured' has its roots in the Latin word โtenere,โ meaning 'to hold' or 'to keep.' It entered the English language in the early 20th century, particularly within the context of academia. The concept of tenure developed in higher education institutions to protect academic staff from arbitrary dismissal, allowing them to pursue research and teaching without the fear of losing their jobs. The formalization of tenure can be traced back to the tenure policies established in various universities. As the system evolved, it ended up reflecting broader principles of academic freedom and tenure-track positions became standard practice in universities, especially in North America. Today, tenure signifies a vital aspect of academic careers and influences hiring practices, departmental structures, and the dynamics of faculty governance.