Teaching

My Teaching Philosophy

(This was taken directly from my promotion dossier.)

Integrity. Humility. Resilience. Beyond being able to effectively disseminate knowledge through lecture – which is a given of the position of Teaching Professor here at S&T – these are the qualities I strive to in-grain in my students through expectation and example.

Integrity is a corner stone to building both the student’s career and their larger success in life. Integrity will enable them to take responsibility for their work and actions. Which, in turn, leads to a genuine sense of pride when they are successful and sense of resolve when they are unsuccessful. Through such actions as adherence to my syllabus and course schedule, a hard stance on cheating and plagiarism, and a demonstrated expectation of individual accountability I hope to impart a strong sense of integrity in my students.

Humility is critically necessary in order for our graduates to grow as individuals. Humility will enable self-reflection during times of struggle and a sense of openness for the diversity of people they will encounter in life. By showing an appropriate level of respect for my students in the classroom – and expecting it return – as well as admitting to my own faults & shortcomings openly I hope to impart a strong sense of humility in my students.

Finally resilience. I want our graduates to have a reputation synonymous with “perseverant and adaptable”. This is a quality I hope to teach my students in part by example. By always being on-time, ready with the day’s materials, and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of any difficulties that arise in or out of class. But also by encouraging them to always look at their failings – perhaps a low exam grade or even a failed class – as an opportunity for growth and perhaps a change of direction.

I believe it is these qualities that will set our students apart for the better not only in their professions, but also within their communities and civil society. Imparting these qualities gives me a rewarding sense of purpose and I believe represents the real challenge before us as educators.