My approach to student development is to provide a structured foundation for students to develop their own independent approach to problem solving and visual communication. As a teacher, I consider myself a contributor and guide along a student’s journey toward a well-rounded, self-confident identity. I believe in integrating concepts across visual mediums and, when possible, across academic boundaries. A curriculum that successfully introduces, encourages and demands alternative approaches to problem solving is vital to the advancement of human cognitive potential. Effective curricula engage broader contemporary academic, technological and social issues.

 

My students’ feedback has honed my use of language and order of instruction. I am also an active member of the Society for Photographic Education (SPE), which keeps me technologically current and allows me to collaborate with peers across the country. I believe that the most important ingredient I bring to the classroom is enthusiasm – for the medium, for teaching and for communicating with new artists. Second to enthusiasm are organization and research; I spend hours creating slide shows and finding appropriate reading materials for each lesson I teach.