As an educator, my primary focus has always been assisting students to develop the cognitive, analytical, and critical thinking skills to reflect and learn from life situations to become successful and productive in their chosen careers. I strive to provide opportunities for the utilizations of these skills through the following practices in formal and non-formal learning settings:
Student Engagement — Students learn best when they are engaged in the learning process, rather than lectured. I seek out opportunities for student discovery through exercises related to real-world situations, personal reflection, and self-guided instruction when possible.
Purposeful Learning — As an educator, I have the responsibility more than to teach a concept that is only retained for a short period of time. We should challenge students to utilize analytical and critical thinking skills to move beyond rote memorization to understanding why certain concepts or systems exist and more importantly, intelligently articulate their viewpoints based on sound reasoning.
Respect and Appreciation for Diversity — I believe educators must seek out opportunities for students to learn firsthand and experience cultural awareness through exposure, conversations and experiences that aid in the understanding, acceptance and appreciation of people that share different talents, attributes and ways of thinking to broaden their own personal perspectives. I must encourage the sharing of personal beliefs and views -- even prejudices – to aid in self-discovery, reflection and advancement.
