It is hard to say exactly what are all the philosophical ideas and theories that form the basis of my teaching style. Since I am a global learner myself I understand that learning is a process that people approach in different ways. I like to incorporate a variety of methods when I teach so that people have the opportunity for many entry points to the information - be they: kinesthetic (learn by doing), tactile (like to work with hands), aural (listening), verbal(speaking), visual, logical,circular,inductive (prefer facts), deductive (reflective learners, work in small groups), global (like to see and understand projects as a whole before breaking down into parts), sequential (learn linearly), creative, direct, indirect,etc.

It is a pretty tall order to aspire to fulfill each person's particular needs within a class of many. Although I do not think that it is necessarily possible, what I aspire to carry with me is an awareness of these different types of learning. I try to build into the learning environment different elements that will answer and speak, at least in part, to these different needs within people's learning styles.

I believe in creating an open class environment where each person participating feels valued for what they can contribute to the learning process. I believe that the learning experienced is deepened when all people present are active and participating. I believe that we all have something within us that is a truth that can make the lives of ourselves and those around us the richer when it is shared and expressed through our ideas.

While I believe that structure is an important element in a learning environment, I also believe in an element of fun. I try to leave room for spontaneity - making space for possibility - and the jewels that sometimes start to shine in the midst of a group's interaction.

Making connections is important to me and there is no greater gift than those moments where I see that somehow I might have helped someone gain an understanding that puts their ideas into the broader context of the whole. I do not think of myself as the one to put the pieces together for others but rather more a person who might facilitate this by helping people line up the pieces they need for themselves.

A useful website.