Teaching
My Teaching Approach
For me, the essence of an academic role is dual-faceted: to be both a diligent researcher and an impactful educator. I regard these two pillars of the job with utmost seriousness and am committed to continuously honing my skills in both domains.
I have taught in the areas of Introduction to Sociology, Sociological theory, Qualitative Methods, and Gender relations. Each teaching opportunity has honed my pedagogical approach, continuously addressing the unique challenges students face in their post-secondary journey.
Drawing inspiration from my own experiences, I see my teaching and research on Theory and Methods as deeply interconnected. I believe in the power of active student learning, employing various techniques like experiential learning exercises for teaching qualitative methods, stimulating theoretical debates, and providing visualizations of theoretical concepts. By thinking through problems, students gain a deeper understanding and stronger grasp on the subject matter.
In addition to my research agenda, I actively attend conferences and participate in the Teaching and Learning section of the ASA. This participation aids me in staying updated with innovative teaching techniques and methodologies.
My goal is to ensure students feel empowered to delve into the material and openly share their perspectives. Prioritizing effective communication, I cultivate opportunities for interaction, recognizing and addressing the diverse challenges and backgrounds students bring into the classroom.
Equity and Diversity
As a first-generation Latina student, I intimately grasp the feelings of overwhelm that come with venturing into the academic world of a university. With this in mind, I support my students in understanding and navigating these academic settings, ensuring they approach learning with excitement and comfort. Equity and diversity are pillars of my teaching philosophy. Understanding that students might feel estranged from the content due to unfamiliarity or lack of previous exposure, I endeavor to connect with each student at their level. My aim is to encourage them to share their current experiences, allowing us to collaboratively overcome common challenges.
Engagement and Empowerment
To bolster engagement and foster confidence, I utilize a pedagogical approach that emphasizes relatable, real-world examples articulated in plain language. By making the material digestible and relevant, I've observed students growing more assured in their capabilities. Promoting open dialogue and advocating for their voices, I nurture an environment where students are motivated to freely express themselves.
My teaching philosophy orbits around the preparation of material that resonates with students, while also being responsive to their changing needs. Recognizing and empathizing with their challenges, I endeavor to empower them, paving the way for a constructive, inclusive learning journey that prepares them for future academic achievements and real-world endeavors.
In 2022, I was selected as one of the recipient of the TA Teaching Excellence Award from the University of Toronto.