Teaching
My teaching philosophy is based on three key principles:
Making teaching relevant, relatable, and connected to lived experience: I aim to draw students into political science by bringing the real world into the classroom. I draw heavily on current events, popular culture, and student’s own examples and experiences, to make sure my classes provide the students with a reason to engage.
Making my subject and myself approachable for every student: I am a strong proponent of the idea that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to engaging students with political science, and so I look to incorporate a mix of traditional lectures, debates, discussions, video content, podcasts, textbooks, journal articles, news stories, and interactive in-class activities, so that each student can find their own way into the material. An observer of my class is as likely to find me delivering a traditional lecture, as they are to see my students huddled around the rooms in small groups, sticking post-its on any flat surface available.
Putting students needs and interests at the center of the class experience: The most effective way to ensure students remain engaged, motivated, and successful is to provide them with ways to personalize their experience and focus on their unique interests. I look to continually find ways throughout the semester or quarter for students to provide input into the direction of the classroom discussion, the assignments, and the syllabus.
Below you can find an extensive statement on my teaching philosophy, as well as copies of my prepared syllabi.
Introduction to American Government Syllabus (10-week quarter system)
Introduction to Comparative Politics Syllabus (10-week quarter system)
The Politics of Identity Syllabus (15-week semester system)
Elections and Political Behavior Syllabus (5-week Summer Session)