Teaching Philosophy

There is something about the effect that happens when a student has an epiphany and you were the vehicle for that. It is something that allows me to feel fulfilled in my life’s purpose… education. 

All students are unique in the ways they acquire information, and as an educator I find it important to implement various pedagogies to reach each individual while also allowing students to learn different perspectives. One of the ways I like to conduct class is through use of the traditional lecture with the implementation of innovative tools including in-class activities and interactive class activities. These tools may also include live writing sessions for research papers and/or a walk through of technology or skill.

A flexible classroom is also important in Library and Information Sciences as a majority of the programs are instructed in the virtual environment. I enjoy open discussion. Often times, formal education teaches theory and it is the focus to not stray from it. That is not always realistic as theory does not always translate in practice. Open discussion allows me to share my experiences from more than 20 years of practice as a professional.

I enjoy sharing real world experiences with the students to ensure I am producing practical professionals. My students and I discuss the flexibility practice calls for. These conversations are transparent as I wish to build professionals who can think on a whim if something does not perfectly align with a taught theory. 

For me, this is the ideal classroom: open to learning different perspectives, flexible learning for concept acquisition, and transparency. This is the classroom environment I wish to always garner. 

Specializations

Engaging virtual learning, program evaluation, and curriculum development for Library and Information Sciences including Leadership and Management of Information Organizations, Archives and Records Management; and African-American History. Dr Johnson is a true advocate for all that is representative.