<p>Another thought spurred by whartonalums comments:</p>
<p>Undergrad teaching emphasis/focus may not be a dominant consideration in tenure decisions at some research-oriented universities, including some of those being discussed.</p>
<p>It obviously wasn't a dominant factor at the university I attended. Some of the best world-class researchers couldn't teach a lick.</p>
<p>I've a prof. friend, who's told me that, at the end of the day, one simply can't do it all; one has to choose whether they prefer a life emphasizing research or emphasizing teaching. It would not surprise me that, at the large research shops including some of those under discussion, tenure is disproportionally granted to those who elect to focus on the former. Which of necessity slights the latter to an extent, relatively speaking, if my friend is to be believed. And I believe him.</p>