Teaching philosophy and strategies

I believe the fundamental goal of teaching is to be a facilitator of learning.  It involves tapping into the student's prior knowledge and identifying the scaffolding from which to build upon. Learning takes place in many different circumstances and contexts.  As I look to the future, the definition of learning is changing.  Our students now have knowledge at their fingertips.

 

My job as an instructor is to create an atmosphere that fosters a deep need to want to know more.  I have a passion for guiding students through the learning process. I encourage learning by creating a relaxed environment, stimulating conversation about concepts being presented, and organizing material in a way that makes it easy to understand.

A theme in my teaching is to spread a message of inclusiveness.   I am not the only "expert" in a classroom.  Students bring foundational knowledge and experiences which can be built upon in the classroom.  Tapping into their challenges in life, their identity, and educational background can be used to assist them in discovering their motivation. Helping them answer the question of "why do they want to obtain a college degree"? This is the first step to retention.   We know students who understand what they want from their college experience tend to have better retention rates.

 

My contact with students is essential to my approach.  I learn their names by week three. (Realize I have over 120 students.)  Student new to college need encouragement to realize they can and should communicate with their professors.  I emphasize my availability for informal discussion and my willingness to help them sort out any problems they have. Teaching college success strategies is vital to all the courses they take regardless of disciplines.  I am able to engage them into understanding they have a tool box of equipment and no tool works for every discipline.

 

Whether it is the College Success, Human Relations for Career Development, or others, I love teaching these subjects because it makes me review my own life and interactions.  It is so much easier to preach then to practice.  I am always taking a self-inventory.  My passion for teaching has been steady.  I view myself as a facilitator, and promote inclusiveness.