Experience Summary
As a Literature MA graduate, I have written extensive article-length papers, conducted in-class seminars, and completed comprehensive exams. During exam semesters, I facilitate study-groups and tutor students studying for comprehensive exams. Currently, I teach English and Women's Studies at the University of Central Florida, as well as substitute teach for Seminole County Public Schools at all grade levels and for all courses. In 2007, I was a teaching assistant for two psychology courses and a sociology course. I know both postsecondary and secondary education Florida curricula. My strengths are in the humanities/liberal arts, including English, all humanities, and art history, as well as social sciences, including sociology, psychology, and anthropology, all of which I have tutored students. I have also tutored high school students in Latin I, II, and III.
Teaching Style
My teaching philosophy is modeled on learning-centered and social constructivist theories. I take an Aristotelian approach in the classroom, guiding students both by lecturing and asking questions. I encourage students to ask each other questions and connect their education to the “bigger picture,” or the world outside the classroom. I believe in collaborative learning practices with mixed- and new-media informing student learning. As a tutor, I listen attentively to students and parents about individual learning concerns, find where learning weaknesses lie, and attempt to find a learning avenue more suitable for the individual learner. In a one-on-one setting, I tailor curriculum based on student level, interest, and attitude. More importantly, I believe learning should be fun and engaging; therefore, I try to engage students every moment to make the lessons easier to absorb and understand.