What is your teaching philosophy?

I teach Spanish in a dynamic style, creating an active learning environment, which actively engages students and makes the content more comprehensible. My lessons are based on dialogue and discussions, which also foster lifelong learning. One requirement that I always state in my syllabus is to have "ganas" (desire) to learn. I believe that nothing can be achieved in life if there is not desire. My philosophy of teaching is also based on my own language learning experience as an adult. I like to share with my students some of personal anecdotal stories of my struggles and accomplishments as a second language learner. In the process of learning English, I acquired a new culture and made life adjustments. In addition, I like to share with my students some effective learning methods and ways to study and learn a new language.

What might you do in a typical first session with a student?

-Introduction (Teacher-Student). -Clarify learning objectives and expectations. -Set the tone for the course. -Collect baseline data on students' knowledge and motivations. -Whet students' appetites for course content.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

-Know your students' names and use their names as often as possible. Plan for every class; never try to wing it. Be expressive. Smile. -Pay attention to the strengths and limitations of each of your students. Reward their strengths and strengthen their we

If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?

-Figure out what they are struggling with and approach the concept from a direction that deals with that problem. -Apply new/different practice methods and try to get as many reps in as possible. -try to give examples from daily life and try to give demonstrations.