How do you select and evaluate culinary school instructors and guest speakers?

1 Qualifications and experience

The first thing to look for in a potential instructor or guest speaker is their qualifications and experience in the culinary field. You want someone who has the relevant education, credentials, and skills to teach your students. They should also have a proven track record of working in the industry, either as a chef, a manager, a consultant, or a trainer. You can check their resume, portfolio, references, and online reviews to verify their background and reputation.

3 Alignment with your curriculum and goals

The third thing to evaluate is their alignment with your curriculum and goals. You want someone who can deliver the content and outcomes that you have designed for your courses. They should also be able to integrate with your existing instructors and staff, and follow your policies and procedures. You can review their syllabus, lesson plans, materials, and assessments, and compare them with your own. You can also discuss with them your expectations, objectives, and standards.

4 Availability and affordability

The fourth thing to factor in is their availability and affordability. You want someone who can commit to your schedule, location, and duration of your courses. They should also be able to fit within your budget and resources. You can negotiate their fees, expenses, and contracts, and make sure they are transparent and fair. You can also explore alternative options, such as online or hybrid delivery, guest lectures, or workshops.

5 Feedback and improvement

The fifth thing to do is to collect and analyze feedback and improvement from your instructors and guest speakers. You want someone who can demonstrate their effectiveness, impact, and value to your students and school. They should also be open to feedback, suggestions, and improvement opportunities. You can use various methods, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, observations, and tests, to measure their performance and satisfaction. You can also provide them with constructive and timely feedback, recognition, and support.

6 Diversity and inclusion

The sixth thing to promote is diversity and inclusion in your instructor and guest speaker selection. You want someone who can represent and respect the diversity of your students, staff, and community. They should also be able to foster an inclusive and respectful learning environment. You can seek out and invite instructors and guest speakers from different backgrounds, cultures, perspectives, and experiences. You can also encourage them to incorporate diverse and inclusive content, examples, and activities in their teaching.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?