My teaching philosophy can be summarized by six principles:
1. Put the Student First - I attempt to put myself in the
student role. What does the student expect from this course? What set of
knowledge and skills must the student take away from the course? How can
I best assess successful learning outcomes for the student during the semester
as well as at the end of the semester? Asking these questions helps me empathize
with the student and adapt my teaching style to the student's needs.
2. Emphasize the Synergy between Teaching and Research -
The role of a university professor is to transition ideas and knowledge
from the research world into the classroom. An accomplished professor
must possess both an excellent research and teaching record. My goal
is to excel in both research and teaching.
3. Focus on Conceptual Understanding of Fundamental Knowledge -
In a field with tremendous industrial demand, such as Information Systems,
it is quite seductive (as well as lucrative) to bow to the demand for
teaching skills instead of knowledge. I strive to make the content
of my courses reflect the underlying knowledge base of the Information
Systems field. While commercial software packages are integral to my
courses, they are used to demonstrate the application of fundamental
concepts.
4. Be Proactive to Industrial Demands - The Information
Systems field is one of constant change. As new ideas and hot topics
are introduced into practice it is important for university curricula
and courses to reflect the reality of industry. I proactively acquire
the latest software tools for use in my courses. Students gain much
from exposure to the state-of-the-practice tools and techniques that
are widely used in the industry. In addition, I invite guest speakers
from industry who present the latest ideas and best practices. Students
always rate these industry sessions as highlights of the courses.
5. Utilize the Latest Teaching Methods and Technologies -
I evaluate and apply the latest teaching methods and technologies in
all of my courses. For example, I was one of the first teachers in
COBA to apply distance learning and web-based content in my classes.
All of my courses use Blackboard to support an interactive learning
environment.
6. Make Learning Fun and Have Fun Teaching - I enjoy teaching and
my enthusiasm for the course material is contagious to the students.
