Reinsmith provides a continuum or paradigm of the possible teaching forms prevalent in higher education. These forms have traditionally come under the heading of roles or styles in earlier analyses. This book views them more relationally as archetypes of various teaching presences on a flow-line ranging from teacher-dominated at one end to totally student-centered at the other.

After examining the relational aspects of teaching, Reinsmith then provides a chapter on each of the teaching forms on the continuum. The concluding chapter discusses the continuum in the light of obstacles to pedagogical growth in the everyday life of the college teacher. While of concern to all who teach, the analysis will be of particular concern to those interested in the philosophy of teaching and pedagogical theory.