Definition or Description:

In this context the term formally recognized refers to recognition by the academic institution of a faculty member's expertise in a specific content area.

Example: If a faculty member is hired to teach mathematics, then mathematics is the formally recognized area of expertise. This is true even if the faculty member possesses advanced degrees in other content areas. Thus, the faculty member may also have a degree in music - but since the faculty member has not been hired as a music teacher then music is not the formally recognized area of expertise.