Experience Summary
I graduated in June 2006 with an M.F.A in Fiction Writing from Pacific University. I graduated Summa Cum Laude, in May 2004, with a B.A. in English and a B.A. in Philosophy from the University of Idaho. Currently, I am an M.A. candidate in the University of Idaho Philosophy Department (Summer 2008 graduation). I have much experience as tutor for the University of Idaho Athletic Department and Student Support Services. I have seven years of experience as a instructor and graduate teaching assistant. I have led recitation sections of Ethics as an assistant (3 years), developed and taught a course of my own as sole instructor (Philosophy in Film, Fall 2007), and was hired as exclusive instructor for Independent Study in Idaho’s distance Ethics course (1 year). I have experience with curricula development, working off others’ curricula, classroom technology, and working with special student populations (nontraditional, student athlete, hearing impaired, and learning disabilities).
Teaching Style
My teaching is guided by passion and the need to both inform and transform. My teaching is created and refined with both the need to learn and the need to cultivate. I believe in standing out, not being another teacher. I’m personable and honest in class, initially offering my personal stories and opinions only to inspire others to do the same. But, more often than not, I play devil’s advocate, allowing opposing sides, voices, and ideals equal time for expression and consideration. I think my seeming indifference keeps the class peaceful, civil, and, it also forces each student to evaluate her own thoughts and ideals critically, to represent them honestly. I’ve always demanded students “own” their ideas and practice sound and thoughtful reasoning to do so. I encourage students speak with me when experiencing difficulty. I listen, consider, and frequently work out alternative solutions to better help them function and thus succeed.