approach to pedagogy
My approach to teaching is grounded in the belief that a deep understanding of fundamental principles is crucial for fostering innovation and creative risk-taking among students. Drawing from my extensive experience in acting, directing, screenwriting, and producing, I emphasize the importance of excelling at the fundamentals before encouraging students to experiment and push boundaries. My teaching philosophy is centered on running the classroom as close to a professional industry-driven environment as possible while creating interactive and engaging assignments where dialogue, critical questioning, and active participation are encouraged.
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I believe that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge but also about facilitating experiences that allow students to learn from each other and their own engagement with the material. I treat lectures as conversations, inviting questions and feedback to create a dynamic learning experience. My background in public speaking, including stand-up comedy, improv, and theater acting, informs my ability to connect with large audiences and maintain an energetic and inviting atmosphere.
Writing exercises, such as reflective journals and analytical responses, are integral to my courses, helping students develop and organize their thoughts and tastes. I also emphasize the importance of inclusive interpersonal communication and ethical responsibilities in filmmaking, ensuring students are aware of the impact of their work on audiences and collaborators.
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I am committed to continuous improvement, staying on top of industry standards through my professional practice, and seeking feedback from students and colleagues and incorporating it into my teaching practices. My goal is to inspire enthusiasm for the subject matter and support students in developing their own artistic voices and professional skills. Watching students grow and succeed in their creative endeavors is my greatest joy and motivation for continuing to work in the classroom.
