2015 Outstanding University Teacher Award Winner, Non-Tenure Track

Megan Koch, M.S.

M.S. in Communications, Ball State University (2005)
Director of Forensics, School of Communication

My motivation to become a college professor

Designing a class or team experience that encourages students to consider the perspectives and needs of others has proven to be valuable, both for cultivating that class community and for opening their eyes to what is happening beyond the Quad.

The three most important methods that I bring to my teaching practice

1) Tough empathy
2) Humor
3) Commitment to community.

Regarding my teaching accomplishments, I am proudest about

I am most proud of the feedback we have received from the community partners. As a teacher, I am always over the moon when a discussion gets going and students ask smart questions and make good connections. In the group projects I love when they make smarter choices with their teammates based on a concept we discussed in lecture.

The one teaching technique or strategy that I would recommend to my colleagues to enhance student learning

Find what makes your course fun for you and celebrate that. Learning is fun, sharing is fun, but so many college courses are not fun. Students notice and respond positively when they recognize that their professors love their subject matter.

the University Seal — “Developing communication skills through community service will teach students the power they wield and the good they can give to the people around them.”