Faculty Expectations and Experiences: The Return to On-Campus Teaching and Learning

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the teaching and learning landscape in Canadian post-secondary institutions, necessitating a sudden shift to virtual instruction. This scoping review explores the perspectives of higher education professors as they returned to on-campus teaching following pandemic-induced remote instruction. The study addresses two key research questions: How did professors feel about their return to on-campus teaching, and what changes (opportunities or challenges) did they expect or encounter upon returning? This review underscores the need for higher education institutions to support professors’ mental health and well-being, as their experiences have implications for public mental health models. It emphasizes the importance of clear communication and guidelines for physical health and safety. Additionally, the study suggests that professors’ openness to diverse teaching modes should inform future decision-making processes, while also advocating for more inclusive and equitable policies and practices in higher education.