IN THE NAME OF ETERNITY
“A generation which ignores history has no past and no future.” – Robert Heinlein
Teaching Philosophy – Art & Culture
In the evolving journey of teaching, I transitioned from finding solace behind the lectern to embracing a collaborative space alongside my students. This shift allowed for genuine interaction and a profound exchange of knowledge. Beyond essential learning outcomes, my focus extends to the effectiveness of the class and crafting lasting, meaningful experiences for students.
Commencing a course involves understanding the diverse backgrounds and interests of students. Tailoring guidance to align with their aspirations ensures that the course outcomes are applicable and valuable in their individual artistic pursuits.
Foundational courses in art theory and art history require contextualization, transforming the class into a time machine that connects historical events to contemporary relevance. Activities such as comparative brainstorming foster engagement, encouraging students to relate themselves to historical contexts.
Questions serve as catalysts for learning, prompting students to visualize and compare different historical ages. Motivating curiosity, questions inspire students to analyze artifacts and integrate abstract ideas with existing knowledge.
Bridging historical knowledge to contemporary life is paramount. Students tirelessly explore their talents and interests, and timely feedback, as well as peer insights, contribute to their reflective and systematic learning process.
Leveraging technology is integral to theoretical classes, fostering motivation and providing an interactive platform for delivering course objectives. Encouraging students to use presentation technology enhances their influence on classmates.
The culmination of this process unfolds as students apply their newfound knowledge to their specific areas of interest. From graphic design to fashion, multimedia to film study, students manifest their research and reflections through diverse creative productions, be it essays, designs, documentaries, or handicrafts.
Reza Hosseiny – 2020