My teaching philosophy is based on the practical application of the knowledge gained in the classroom.  For each course, I develop an expert model of the knowledge, skills, and abilities that a professional possesses in the particular field I am teaching. I look for the moments when the student doesn't just parrot the information back but can demonstrate how they would use the knowledge and even extend upon that knowledge.  Teaching is not just about transmitting knowledge but also developing the student's abilities as a critical thinker and an independent scholar. 
 

I prefer the constructionist theory of teaching.  I plan my courses with a mix of activities to maximize student engagement and learning.  My lectures are typically short because, according to neuroscience, attention wanders after ten minutes of continuous lecturing.  When teaching face-to-face courses, I often had students present the material in different formats, such as a game or video presentation.  With online classes, I encourage forum discussions and peer reviews where students view each other's projects and help their peers refine their assignments.  In all my courses, I like students to use examples from their everyday lives and determine how they can use the knowledge in the class to solve their real-world problems.  Many students have told me how they could use assignments from my course in their job interviews and at their work to help them succeed.