Overview
My combined personal, academic and professional experiences had a profound impact on my academic trajectory, and my desire to teach the theory and practice of social change through the discipline of public policy and administration. As an instructor I believe the study of public policy and administration needs to blend theoretical knowledge with real-world applicable knowledge and skills. This combined learning experience provides students with the opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of the policy process, public services and building healthier communities. This is done by educating students on existing social structures and inequalities and teaching students the skills to be agents of positive social change in our global society.
I use a variety of pedagogical practices to help students effectively comprehend the theories and practice of the public policy process and administration. Classroom learning is a combination of lectures to teach the fundamental theories and concepts, while class room discussions and student presentations are used to help students think critically about the topics. Related documentaries, movies/TV segments, and current events are also shown and discussed to introduce students to the connection between theory and real-world realities. Engaged learning experiences also provide students with the opportunity to learn by doing, associating and observing. As a result, students develop a more in-depth and complex understanding of poignant issues that demonstrate social and environmental injustice and they are able to apply the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to real-world situations. This type of learning helps students think critically about their own social identities, which is fundamentally valuable to their success as future leaders and facilitators of positive social change.
Please email or call me 312.662.4328 if you have questions or would like more information about me.