TEACHING
One of the joys of my education was when the light bulb turned on. When this happened information that I didn't understand became clear, and connections between concepts and ideas were made. At these times education stopped being mundane and started being fun. These were also the moments when I began to ask questions that, with the help and guidance of excellent teachers, inspired me to pursue my own research. My goal as a teacher is to turn on that light bulb.
I emphasize lecture in my courses, but I also try to facilitate discussion and generate a passion for the subject matter we are covering. While many academics feel the need to cheer students on and convince them that "my subject is fun," I think information processing is absolutely essential to the development of critical thinking and analytical skills. Politics can be fun, but it's also difficult, and you can't develop an understanding of politics without understanding its moving pieces. You will not get a handout in my courses. Academic handouts prevent students from achieving the goal of a liberal arts education: the development of the self. But those students willing to work hard, think critically, and face their own personal strengths and weaknesses will find in me a willing advocate and mentor who will do what it takes in order to help them succeed.
I emphasize lecture in my courses, but I also try to facilitate discussion and generate a passion for the subject matter we are covering. While many academics feel the need to cheer students on and convince them that "my subject is fun," I think information processing is absolutely essential to the development of critical thinking and analytical skills. Politics can be fun, but it's also difficult, and you can't develop an understanding of politics without understanding its moving pieces. You will not get a handout in my courses. Academic handouts prevent students from achieving the goal of a liberal arts education: the development of the self. But those students willing to work hard, think critically, and face their own personal strengths and weaknesses will find in me a willing advocate and mentor who will do what it takes in order to help them succeed.