As an educator, I strive to help students achieve their educational goals and harness their passion toward becoming innovative and expressive makers. As such, one of my highest priorities is to create inclusive and equitable learning environments in which students realize their superpowers, succeed and thrive, and know that they belong.
My journey as an artist has influenced two fundamental elements that shape the way I teach – curiosity and partnership. Curiosity is the engine that fuels discovery and creativity. Creating opportunities for students to exercise, grow and amplify their curiosity is an essential aspect of the learning process. As a means of nurturing discovery toward creativity, I encourage students to approach the world with a sense of wonder and enthusiasm, to find joy in uncovering and discovering possibilities, and to explore what, why and how for themselves.
We all have so much to learn from each other. Empowering students as learning partners – co-creators and collaborators – are approaches I use when designing activities and assignments. When students participate and engage in this way, the learning environment is not only more inclusive, but also more dynamic, relevant, creative and joyful. Partnerships fuel innovation. When students collaborate, support each other, and participate as educational partners in the learning journey, the learning process becomes more meaningful and dynamic.
I subscribe to an asset-based approach to teaching. This approach centers on understanding student strengths and differences, and actively valuing their unique backgrounds, perspectives, culture, identity, prior experiences, and knowledge as essential to an enriched and vibrant learning environment.
In conclusion, my approach to teaching is rooted in the belief that education is not a transactional or a one-way transfer of knowledge, it is a dynamic, collaborative and transformative journey. I aim to be a difference-maker for my students – I want them to leverage all their assets and superpowers, I want them to feel seen and heard, and I want them to be included and empowered. By fostering learning environments in which students thrive, I hope to help students achieve their academic goals and discover their own unique voice as makers and thinkers.