Teaching Philosophy
Hi, my name is Dr. Kam Zinsser. My philosophy of education evolved from many years of teaching experience. As I reflect on my beliefs regarding teaching and learning. I find that my mission as a teacher includes:
- To inspire and promote learning in a positive learning environment.
- To support students with individualized feedback that promotes learning outcomes.
- Apply professional expertise for creating practical, discipline-specific connections to promote student achievement.
- To provide different media formats in the classroom that appeal to multiple learning styles of the students.
To accomplish this, I utilize a wide variety of strategies based on cognitive functioning, learning theory, diversity, and instructional planning. As such, I routinely utilize writing assignments as a means to determine the cognitive levels of my students and work to provide an individual plan to promote successful learning. I also use learning theories such as interactive lessons. Teaching to all learning styles encompasses a repertoire of lesson presentations to engage the learner in the classroom. I utilize many different forms of presentation such as visuals, infographics, research, learning videos, and PowerPoints. Instructional design is another key component of the classroom that provides the essentials for teaching curriculum. Models such as constructivist and cognitive provide for more of an understanding and focus on the key elements of the lesson.
Following these basic principles provides a foundation that promotes success in my classroom. I enjoy sharing my passion for teaching and learning as well as using these principles to connect with students.
Click on the link below for Canva and Adobe Spark work examples.
Click on the link for Biteable video work example.
Powtoon
I wanted to create a different type of announcement. I decided to use Powtoon to introduce Module 3 to my students in a quick video.
Doodly-Whiteboard Animation Software
I added this video as an introduction to the Module on Sensory Learning Styles. It provides a summary of the reading information.
Powerpoint Presentation
I presented at the 2019 Texas Administrators of Continuing Education Conference on transformational leadership. I included the Powerpoint below.
Rise 360
I created a quick Student Service course using Rise 360. Click on the link to preview the course.
Education
- Doctor of Education, Hardin-Simmons University
- Masters of Education, Hardin-Simmons University
- Bachelors of Education, Hardin-Simmons University
Experience
Learning Architect/iDesign Specialist, Remote-June 2020-Present
First Year Experience Online Instructor and Team Lead, Southern New Hampshire University, Manchester, NH - December 2014-Present
Dean of Workforce & Economic Development, Cisco College, Abilene, TX - January 2018-Present
General Psychology Instructor, Cisco College, Abilene, TX - September 2018-December 2018
Learning Frameworks Instructor, Cisco College, Abilene, TX - September 2018-Present
Reading Development Instructor, Hardin-Simmons University, Abilene, TX -August 2016-May 2017
School Counselor, Wylie Independent School District, Abilene, TX - August 1999-June 2006
Photograph by Kam Zinsser