Statement of Teaching Philosophy
I base my teaching on the belief that the only way to learn an art discipline is by making art. While the process of looking at examples and from lecture notes is valuable, the real learning comes through one’s own efforts at solving visual problems, either through techniques, their use of the proper tools or both. This is achieved mostly through class assignments, but also through class discussions (including critiques) and exercises. I view my role as a facilitator for this process. I must design the framework in which learning can take place, and then stimulate and nurture the students’ development, giving help in terms of knowledge, techniques and encouragement.
My goals in teaching are not just to promote learning of the subject matter. I also provide a classroom environment where students are encouraged to express their own ideas and participate in their education experience. I try to help the students learn to think creatively, learn problem-solving methods and techniques, and improve visual communication skills (through their art, explaining step-by-step processes, providing valid reasons for composition). In addition, I try to help students see the course material in a holistic context by requiring them to synthesize the various concepts of the course by applying them together.
