Experience Summary
Coming from the influence of a family of educators, I realized early on my affinity towards teaching. In addition to my college degrees, I have been very involved in the 'summer camp' experience. Over six summers, I worked with two summer camps to teach various physical and academic curricula to grade groups K-5, 6-8, 9-12. In graduate school, I was given the opportunity to spearhead a class of undergraduates, splitting lecture time with the professor. I am currently writing my thesis (under review of faculty) to be published on the "Architectural History of NC State University and the Areas Surrounding" it. During my time in university, I have tutored students in chemistry, astronomy, English, grammar, Spanish, math, history and several other general education elements.
Teaching Style
I believe that information accessibility should be emphasized and placed in bold. I would consider my style personable, compassionate, and driven to excel. I like to bring humor and discussion into the arena. If it's just me talking, how does it benefit the student if they do not feel they have the ability to rebut or 'think out loud?' New ideas and processes of interpretation are enabled in both the student and the teacher through a live and ever-changing dialogue. I realize that in the 'classroom proper' not everyone will have the 'eureka' experience. That is why the teacher must enable the students to make the connections themselves through collaboration, small projects, various 'out-of-the-classroom events/activities, and self-motivated inquiries. Once the information has been perceived by the student as important, he/she will want more to do with it. The information age has brought into our homes libraries from across the continents and connected us through services like Myspace, Facebook, and Twitter. Many of these opportunities can be woven into the learning experience and prove to be a valuable asset to a teacher whose pupils are often more technologically savvy than they are. I will strive to be accessible through email, web chat, and other outlets at designated times to enable student success.