Thoughts on Teaching

Teaching serves as a source of great joy to me.  Each of my classes utilizes a mixture of lecture, discussion, case study, and in many cases, simulation. No matter the subject of the class, I'm always mindful of highlighting the connection between academic theory and the reality of international politics. 
My teaching philosophy consists of the following six points:
  1.  Convey material effectively.  Break a subject down into its simplest parts, provide as much context and background as possible, and then build the complexity back into the material once students have established that strong foundation of knowledge.
  2. Emphasize the practical application of knowledge.  Strive to not only have students learn the material, but also to understand HOW that material applies to their own lives.  If you demonstrate the value and utility of their new knowledge, students will become more invested in what they are learning.
  3. Be enthusiastic and passionate about the material, and students will respond in kind.
  4. Respect students as individuals, care about their well-being and success, and they will respond in kind.
  5. Provide detailed assignment instructions, formative feedback, and timely access to grades.
  6. Develop the ability to read your audience, and if the situation calls for it, adapt and be flexible in your content delivery.
CLASSES TAUGHT
  • Global Issues
  • Politics of Ethnic Conflict
  • International Political Economy
  • International Environmental Politics
  • Model United Nations
  • Politics of Asia
  • Introduction to International Studies
  • International Studies Capstone
  • Simulations in Diplomacy
  • Global Water Politics
TEACHING AWARDS AND DISTINCTIONS
  • Recipient, 2020, UNC Board of Governor's Award for Excellence in Teaching.
  • Recipient, 2017, Chancellor's Distinguished Teaching Award, Western Carolina University.
  • Recipient, 2013, College of Arts and Sciences Teaching Award, Western Carolina University.
  • Recipient, 2012, Excellence in the Teaching of Liberal Studies Award, Western Carolina University.
  • Recipient, 2008 Old Dominion University Graduate Teaching Assistant of the Year Award.
Picture
WCU's wonderful Fall 2015 Model United Nations delegation at the Southern Regional Model United Nations conference in Atlanta.