Teaching Philosophy

Something special happens when a student has an epiphany, and you were the vehicle for that. It is gives me fulfillment towards my life’s purpose… education. 

Every student is unique in the ways they acquire and process information, much like the people we service in libraries. Understanding that as an educator, I find it important to implement various pedagogies to guide each individual while also welcoming 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 innovation and engagement. These tools structured learning as well as include in-class activities, live writing sessions, and demonstration of instructional technology for effective use.

A flexible classroom is also important in Library and Information Sciences as a majority of the programs are instructed in the virtual environment. Often times, formal education teaches theory and it is the focus to not stray from it. That is not practical as theory does not always translate in practice. Open discussion allows me to share my experiences from more than 15 years of practice as a practitioner and administrator.

I enjoy sharing real world experiences with the students to ensure I am producing practical professionals. My students and I discuss the flexibility and critical thinking the 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 theory. 

A classroom that is open and safe for discussion, flexible learning for concept acquisition, and transparency is the learning environment I am committed to providing. 

Specializations:

Engaging online learning, program evaluation, and curriculum development including subjects covering: 

• American Public Library History
• African American History
• Archives and Records Management
• Black Librarianship and HBCU Libraries
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Libraries 
• Foundations of Library and Information Sciences
• Leadership and Management of Information Organizations 
• People Leadership

Dr. Johnson is a true advocate for all that is representative and inclusive.