Teaching Philosophy
WHY I TEACH:
I teach to serve as a mentor, to share my enthusiasm for geography, to encourage lifelong learning, to improve geographic literacy, to demonstrate that creativity and fun are parts of education, and to make the world a better place through increased cultural understanding.
WHAT I TEACH:
I teach students accountability and responsibility; critical, creative, and bold thinking; communication; questioning; and problem-solving in the field of geography.
HOW I TEACH:
I use a variety of instructional methods, including (but not limited to) actively engaging students, incorporating technology into lessons, and experiential learning. Experiential learning, or learning by doing (e.g., field excursions and service learning), provides students with more insight than merely reading a textbook or attending lectures.
HOW I MEASURE MY EFFECTIVENESS:
I frequently reflect on my techniques and do my best to remain up-to-date on new teaching methods and styles. If students are not receiving the message I am trying to convey, I ask them for feedback, seek advice from colleagues and mentors, and adjust my practice accordingly.
DEDICATION TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION:
As an instructor, I serve as a mentor to my students, who come from all backgrounds. I am committed to fostering an environment where everyone has an equal opportunity to reach their full potential, where every idea and voice can be heard, and everybody belongs. That includes ensuring that my course materials incorporate and promote a diverse mix of people, backgrounds, and perspectives. In my classroom, students are valued, respected, and encouraged to be their unique selves, no matter their visible or invisible differences.