Teaching Philosophy

I teach others because I love to learn and I love to share what I know with others. I really enjoy being in the classroom and seeing that “light bulb moment” when a student knows that they have mastered the content and are going to be able to apply that knowledge. My mission is to transfer my love of learning to as many people as I can, so that they can improve their lives, whether that is personally, professionally, or spiritually. Additionally, I wish to teach my students how to develop sound instructional content that reaches a wide range of learning styles, how to create proper types of assessments with measurable outcomes, and how to evaluate and integrate technology tools to enhance learning.

Goals for Student Learning

I treat subject matter as interconnected, emphasizing that everything students are learning fits together into a holistic understanding of the world. Students come to the classroom with a broad range of tacit knowledge. I like to use different group pairings for student activities so that students have the ability to learn from each other. One of the most important concepts I hope to impart to students is that learning is a process that never ends. Students need to learn to think independently, take risks, solve problems, make mistakes and then formulate solutions. Developing time management skills will help them be successful not only in the course but throughout their lives.

Student Expectations

Students should expect clear instruction and measurable goals to achieve when attending one of my classes. I expect students to read course materials, actively listen to comments from their peers and me, participate in classroom dialogue and exercises, write reflectively about the material, and to fully participate in group projects. They should also be seeking excellence in all that they do, as this is what I seek for myself. In return, they will receive fair and contemplative evaluations, suggestions for improvement, and my availability to discuss concerns with an open mind.

Teaching Style

I have a combined behavioral and progressive teaching style. My focus is on promoting skill development and behavioral change and enhancing an individual’s effectiveness. My role is to present and direct students thru outcomes and helping to guide them thru the experience. Students take an active role in learning and practicing new knowledge and skills by problem solving, skill training, and cooperative learning. Some of the ways that I interact with students include:

• Being highly communicative with students
• Moving from using the Socratic approach to more of a coach
• Being very flexible
• Providing continuous feedback
• Developing a sense of community
• Providing clear guidelines and expectations

I like to use a variety of teaching methods and some methods fit better in a traditional vs. online classroom. These methods might include discussions, case studies, concept maps, demonstrations, group and individual projects, and peer-to-peer teaching. My teaching strengths include being technically proficient, enjoying a fast-paced environment with new challenges, possessing excellent organizational skills, and a sense of humor. An area of improvement for me is that I want everyone to be successful. Learning to let go of issues or outcomes that are out of my control can be a challenge when you want your students to do their best.

Evaluation Methods
To measure student learning, I provide multiple methods of assessments. I have used a variety of evaluation strategies in my teaching career which have included:

• Individual and collaborative research projects
• Formal scholarly research papers
• Presentations (Speaking, Multimedia)
• Quizzes
• Review activities
• Traditional exams
• Writing Activities
• Portfolios
• Peer-to-Peer Evaluations

Student knowledge can be assessed using quizzes, review activities, and traditional exams. Application of knowledge and skills can be assessed using research papers, writing activities or portfolios. Team work, critical thinking skills, and creativity can be measure through collaborative research projects, presentations, and peer-to-peer evaluations.

Inclusive Learning Environment

My role as an instructor is to create an atmosphere that fosters learning. Treating each other with respect and courtesy is of the utmost importance. Being open to differing viewpoints and belief systems will only enhance our ability to interact in a multi-cultural world. Creating instruction that appeals to different learning styles and modalities gives each student the opportunity to contribute in the classroom. I present information both orally and visually to accommodate both students with visual or auditory impairments. At the beginning of a course, I have students encourage a safe learning environment by creating their own ground rules. I build rapport with my students by sharing my own background information, hobbies, goals, and interests. I have them complete a questionnaire to share any information that they choose, and to find out why they are taking the course, what they hope to learn, etc. I also have them complete a learning style inventory so that I can structure my teaching to best meet their needs. Additionally, I can ask for anonymous feedback from students’ mid-semester to assess the classroom climate, propose any recommendations, and then determine if any modifications need to be made.

Professional Growth

I am interested in whole brain teaching and communities of practice. Whole brain teaching classrooms are full of task-focused laughter. Humor and games are used to increase the number of times students repeat core information and practice basic skills. Communities of practice are groups of people who share a concern or a passion for something they do and learn how to do it better as they interact regularly. I hope to continue to learn more about these two teaching strategies through journals, conferences, and other teachers. I also want to receive input from my students and have created a teaching evaluation checklist where I can receive anonymous feedback for self-improvement.

Summary

By embracing change, opportunities for growth are endless and I want to model a life that shows growth. If I can encourage students to always keep learning, then I have achieved success. I value honesty, integrity, fairness, respect for others, and relationships. I offer a kind heart, an analytical mind, a ready laugh, a desire for success, and enthusiasm for all things that I attempt. Like all values, these are ideals for which I am constantly striving but not always fully successful in achieving.