In academia, knowledge is a shared resource open to all. As a guiding light, the educator plays a vital role in elevating the collective consciousness of the community. Click the button below to view my teaching philosophy as a PDF.
Asynchronous vs. Synchronous Learning
The best approach for online education depends on students' needs and the course objectives. Asynchronous learning is ideal for those who need flexibility, such as busy professionals or learners in different time zones, allowing them to access materials at their own pace. This method can improve learning retention and cater to diverse learning styles. In contrast, synchronous learning is beneficial for courses requiring real-time interaction, immediate feedback, and collaboration, such as group work or live discussions. It suits students who thrive in structured environments and prefer direct engagement with instructors and peers. Often, a blended approach combining both methods—such as pre-recorded lectures paired with live sessions—offers the most comprehensive learning experience, providing flexibility while maintaining engagement.Asynchronous learning is particularly effective in online classrooms for subjects like Art Appreciation and Art History 1 and 2, where students often need the flexibility to absorb complex material at their own pace. During my time at Lawson State Community College in Alabama, I became certified to teach online, and when I transitioned to Snead State Community College within the Alabama Community College system, I continued to teach Art Appreciation and Art History courses online. I found that pre-recording my lectures was the most effective method for both my online and in-person students. By incorporating important key points and lecture notes, students could revisit the material as needed, helping them absorb the information more thoroughly. Pre-recorded lectures allow students to pause, rewind, and rewatch sections they may have missed or want to review, giving them control over their learning. This flexibility helps them stay engaged and retain the information better than in a traditional live lecture format. Overall, asynchronous learning allows students to engage with the content at their own pace, making it especially beneficial for subjects like Art History, where analysis and reflection are key to understanding.Studio Art
I started recording studio demonstrations, which proved to be very helpful. By allowing students to watch the video in a short time span and speed it up, I didn't take away from their valuable studio time. They could also rewatch the video as needed. This method was an effective way to teach, and I believe demonstrating is crucial in an art studio class to address students' needs. Synchronous learning is ideal for an in-person studio experience, where real-time interaction and guidance are key. However, it's important to recognize that every student learns differently, and finding the right balance between synchronous and asynchronous methods can best support all learning styles. For example, if a student misses a demonstration due to illness or other reasons, they have the opportunity to catch up. Life happens, and sometimes we can't help it.Teaching Portfolios
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University of Alabama at Birmingham
Between the years of 2014 and 2016, I was the Drawing Adjunct Professor at UAB. I taught a variety of classes from Foundation Drawing to Advanced Drawing and Painting. By clicking Teaching Portfolio 1, you will see a variety of student artwork.
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Lawson State Community College
Between the years of 2017 and 2022, I was the full time Lead Art Instructor in the Art Area’s Fine Arts Department. I taught a variety of classes from Drawing to Art Appreciation. By clicking Teaching Portfolio 2, you will see a variety of student artwork.
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Snead State Community College
Between the years of 2022 - 2025, I am currently the full time Art Instructor over the Art Department at SSCC. I teach a variety of classes from Drawing to Painting. By clicking Teaching Portfolio 3, you will see a variety of student artwork.
FERPA
I abide by The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). It is a Federal Law, which is a privacy agreement between Higher Ed., the instructor, and the Federal Government in the United States of America to protect my students. You will not see students names on my website, unless I have written consent.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, as amended, protects employees and job applicants from employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex and national origin.
Protections Against Discrimination and Other Prohibited Practices must be a rule for every educator working with humanity.