2012 Teaching Initiative Award Winner
Monica Cousins Noraian, Ph.D.
- Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Foundations from Illinois State University (2007)
- Assistant Professor and Director of the History-Social Sciences Education Program, Department of History
Teaching philosophy
The process of teaching and learning should be authentic, hands on, and collaborative. I want my students to become historians, activists, and teachers while engaging with content, pedagogy, and a strong sense of community.
Three most valuable approaches that I bring to my teaching practice
I bring enthusiasm for the subjects and students I teach, a strong sense of social justice, and “real world” experience as a former high school History-Social Sciences teacher.
Most rewarding aspect of teaching
Watching change happen in my students and seeing their transitional journey from student to teacher. It is encouraging to watch them grow with confidence, engage with pedagogy, and be challenged by new ideas.
Teaching technique to recommend
I encourage the use of reflection. It helps students understand and take ownership of the learning process and encourages growth and development. My students reflect formally, informally, individually, and collectively on their own work to make improvements, my pedagogy to begin to own the teaching process, their peers to help them improve, and the course and their assignments to give me regular feedback.
Most important teaching influence
I am fortunate to have had some amazing teachers throughout my education. I felt challenged, empowered, encouraged, inspired, and valued. I learned content, compassion, and creativity. Most importantly, I learned to use my voice in and outside the classroom and give voice to those who are not being heard.
