Overall, I believe the teacher of foreign language must be a facilitator, a bridge and a guiding light. His or her job is to help illuminate the path for the student as they master the challenges of a new language. I think of my role as that of a mentor both inside and outside the classroom setting.

My intention is to help students function effectively in an increasingly complex world – one that culturally is becoming less boundary-related and more boundaryless. In the global society that is developing, language becomes one of the marks of intellectual prowess and an important lever to career effectiveness---it both broadens and preserves our cultural horizons. I am happy when I can convince my students that they are studying a most important subject, and not just a simple requirement they have to fulfill. I want them to realize that the acquisition of a new language is a serious matter: an enjoyable and amazing endeavor that requires discipline, an open mind, a  sense of humor, and not being embarrassed when one makes a mistake. I want students to be respectful of and curious about another language and culture different from their own. In summary, I hope to plant a seed which would enrich their lives and even mature into an interest in a career in languages instead of some of the careers that are currently receiving a glut of many students.

With this in mind, when teaching Spanish, I always try to draw on students’ own experiences to help them understand the set of sounds and formation of words of the new language they are venturing to learn. From the first day of class, I inform my students that this course is communication-based and address my students as intelligent individuals eager to learn. I accept the responsibility for their education, and try to maintain high standards so that students are not disappointed. Although I let my students know that a language class is a cooperative effort, I always ask myself whether I would like to be a student in my own class as well as whether my teaching is well received by my students. From day one, my classes are conducted in the target language, Spanish. I start asking students to give me words, sentences or expressions they have learned or heard from the media, colleagues, or friends. Then I collect them and present them back as a group effort. This practice relaxes the students and reduces the level of anxiety that some students bring to class. Every time I teach, I am more convinced that the constant usage of the target language in and out of the classroom is the best way of creating a stimulating atmosphere conducive to the acquisition of the second language. I have noticed that students who have real exposure to the target language are more comfortable, and consequently more interested in following up with the higher courses and finding opportunities for practicing this knowledge abroad or outside their cultural or professional environment.

Home  Class Syllabi  Curriculum Vitae  Bookmarks  Spanish Club  Principles of Success