As an educator, I see my role as more than just delivering lectures. It’s about nurturing students’ growth both within and beyond the classroom. I emphasize not only teaching subject matter but also empowering students with the skills to become lifelong learners, a crucial aspect, especially in first-year courses.

Transparency is a cornerstone of my teaching philosophy. It involves setting clear expectations for the classroom and offering unwavering support to maintain those expectations. Moreover, I am committed to promoting civic engagement. This means encouraging students to apply their knowledge outside the classroom, fostering active citizenship.

Creating a safe and inclusive learning environment is of paramount importance. Recognizing that post-secondary education can be intimidating, especially for first-year students, I encourage questions and act as a resource for students. Empathy and understanding are the foundations of my teaching approach, coupled with a strong sense of accountability for all students.

In acknowledging the diversity of the classrooms I teach in, I customize my teaching methods to cater to the unique learning styles of each class. Whether it’s adjusting participation exercises to accommodate shy students or providing real-life examples to engage disinterested ones, my goal is to ensure that every class has a fulfilling learning experience.

In my classroom, I specialize in the study of rhetoric within the realm of public speaking. Quintilian’s definition of rhetoric as “a good person speaking well” serves as my guiding principle. I train students to speak confidently, persuasively, and with a full commitment to their message. This is accomplished through in-class speeches, workshops focused on developing outlines and refining delivery, and the presentation of exemplary public speakers through videos.

In summary, my teaching philosophy centers on fostering ethical public speaking in a safe, inclusive environment. My objective is to not only engage students with the material but also inspire them to apply their knowledge beyond the classroom. I aspire to equip my students with the tools needed for academic success and to instill in them a sense of civic responsibility, preparing them to make significant contributions to their communities.