My teaching depends upon a variety of instructional strategies that come in different forms. When instructing students, I provide for many different types of learner’s needs through the usage of auditory, written, and visual information. I also passionately believe in building upon lessons that offer students a chance to deepen their development and thinking about art.
I employ class discussions, step-by-step demonstrations, written text, and discussion of student assignments. Discussions are framed within historical, cultural, and social contexts, as well as creative expression and descriptions.
Being a successful art educator is a lifelong process, especially within the changing times and needs of students. Being fluent in current art related trends, history, philosophy, criticism, mediums, and making are all needed when teaching. My knowledge and understanding of art, along with my continual learning and working practice, help to influencing students, colleagues, and communities. My aim is for continual growth of finding meaning in art. Through my continual experiences and learning of the ever-expanding field of art, I can provide for an informed selection of instructional content from which to teach.
I teach methods where critical conceptual thinking can be applied towards individual development. Teaching is most exciting when students become dependent not on my influence but rather on their own developed inner voice. This helps students understand who they are and what they aspire to achieve in their artistic pursuits. Perfecting my listening skills encourages students to open up as well as learn more about themselves.
Self-reflection and student feedback is also important to me. The cumulative combination of my mistakes, struggles, and successes helps me achieve the optimum learning environment. My experiences instill an inspiration to learn more about teaching and how to accomplish this successfully in a variety of ways. This inspiration comes not only from my students, but also in my research and collaboration with colleagues.