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teaching philosophy
Learning as a Collaborative Journey
To me, learning isn’t a one-way transmission of knowledge from teacher to student. It’s a dynamic, collaborative process where both the teacher and students actively participate in the exchange of ideas. I believe education should empower students to think critically, ask questions, and engage deeply with the material, turning the classroom into a space of mutual discovery. As an educator, my role is to guide this exploration, fostering an environment where students feel encouraged to share their perspectives and challenge their assumptions. Through this back-and-forth, I not only share knowledge but also gain new insights from the diverse experiences and viewpoints my students bring to the table.
Bridging Scholarship and Public Understanding
A key part of my teaching philosophy is making academic scholarship accessible to a broader audience. I’m passionate about translating complex scholarly ideas and research into language and concepts that everyone can understand. This comes from my belief that the true value of research lies in its ability to inform and enrich society. By connecting academic work to real-world issues and ensuring it’s communicated in a way that’s easy to grasp, I aim to bridge the gap between the ivory tower and the communities in which I live and work. This approach not only deepens students’ understanding but also prepares them to apply their knowledge in ways that make a meaningful impact beyond the classroom.
Fostering Critical Engagement
I emphasize the importance of critical engagement with material, encouraging students to question and analyze rather than just passively receive information. This involves integrating diverse perspectives into the curriculum, promoting interdisciplinary thinking, and challenging students to consider the broader implications of what they learn. My goal is to cultivate not just informed students, but individuals who can reflect thoughtfully and engage with the world in meaningful ways.
Decolonizing the Classroom
Central to my teaching philosophy is the commitment to decolonizing the classroom. I strive to challenge the traditional Eurocentric narratives that have long dominated education by incorporating a wider range of voices and perspectives into my teaching. This means actively seeking out and integrating materials that represent the experiences, knowledge systems, and histories of marginalized communities. By doing so, I aim to create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment where all students can see themselves reflected in the curriculum. This approach not only broadens students’ understanding but also encourages them to critically examine the power structures that shape knowledge production and dissemination.
Inclusive and Adaptive Teaching
Recognizing that each student brings unique experiences, strengths, and challenges to the classroom, I strive to create an inclusive learning environment that respects and values this diversity. I adapt my teaching methods to meet the needs of all students, whether it’s through varied instructional strategies, flexible assessment methods, or providing additional support where needed. My aim is to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed and feel valued in the learning process.
Lifelong Learning and Curiosity
Finally, I see teaching as a lifelong learning process, where I’m continually refining my methods, staying current with new developments in my field, and staying open to feedback from students. I hope to inspire in my students a similar sense of curiosity and a commitment to ongoing learning, equipping them with the skills and mindset they’ll need to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Regularly Taught Classes
Discourse, Culture & Identity
Interpersonal Communication
(Critical) Intercultural Communication