My teaching philosophy

My teaching philosophy is largely based on my own learning experiences. Looking back on my childhood and education, it is hard to believe that I currently teach computer classes. I did not grow up in the “age of technology.” In college, I majored in accounting. Computers was a new field and something I found to be very intimidating. Initially, I wanted to learn computers to allow me to excel in the working world. The transition from accounting to computer science was both scary and a challenging. These concerns I had as a student have remained with me and I draw upon them to teach my classes.

I have three basic beliefs that I incorporate in my teaching philosophy: (1) guide students to recognize and fully understand the fundamental concepts in computer programming; (2) help students develop their critical thinking skills to allow them to apply the fundamentals to more advanced concepts; and (3) communicate with the students to encourage them to become independent thinkers which will allow them to ultimately excel in their careers.

As important as the first principle is, the concepts can be rather boring to a student. As a teacher, I have a responsibility to help students gain an understanding of the fundamental material and application of that material, so I use a variety of techniques to motivate my students and keep them interested. The easiest technique is to convey enthusiasm for the course topics. Additionally, the use of examples from real life also provides a source of motivation. For example, computer games are fun and are a big part of life for many students, especially the younger ones. Therefore, I use games to teach the important fundamental of sorting algorithm in data structures. Sorting algorithms can ...

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...t I have integrated into the university, I look forward to developing research in the field of Computer Science Education in the near future. I feel that effective teaching at the college level is premised on the use of research to enhance the student learning experience. Going forward, my work will focus on research that provides useful teaching, advising, and curriculum development techniques to computer science educators.

I recognize that I still have much to learn to become a great instructor. Not all of my improvement ideas are successful, but I would much rather try new ideas in an attempt to keep improving as a teacher than never try something new out of fear that it won’t work. I am, and will always be, an evolving educator who listens to the experience of my students and peers to provide that most innovative and effective educational experience I can.