TALHA HARCAR Teaching Philosophy

 Learning is a lifelong process which takes place in a variety of environments.  In the classroom, learning involves challenging, motivating and inspiring students to think, probe and explore the subject matter in an active and stimulating manner.  An educator assists students in this journey.

Teaching Philosophy  I operate on the premise that students want to learn and I am to serve as the facilitator of learning.  It is my responsibility to create a total learning environment where students are actively encouraged to question, acquire specific cognitive information, evaluate alternative careers and lifestyles, values, attitudes and beliefs.

Teaching Philosophy  I always attempt to be a positive role model and maintain high personal ethical standards.  As a teacher, I believe that I have been entrusted by student parents with helping to prepare students to live full and valued lives.

Teaching Philosophy  No matter what course I am teaching, I use interactive, hands-on learning techniques.  In general, this will be through classroom and also internet discussions/debates, small- group activities, projects, and case studies.

Teaching Philosophy  Since I am in a field that is continually advancing, I must keep current and apprise my students of recent developments.  I should always be fully prepared for all of the classes and be on time (hopefully at least 5-10 minutes early).

Teaching Philosophy  Personal interaction between students and teacher is imperative for developing mutual respect.  I treat and respect students as a unique individual with special needs and abilities.  I recognize that they have very complex lives outside the classroom, and reasonable accommodations are appropriate and necessary when conflicts arise between classroom obligations and personal growth opportunities outside the classroom.

Teaching Philosophy  I carefully grade all class assignments and exams and return all materials within appropriate time period and post on my web site where student can access with individual password.  I make myself available for a certain hours a week, plus additional time by appointment, to assist students in resolving any problems they may be having with course materials or career decisions.

Teaching Philosophy  I am a firm believer that in order for a student to master the subject material they must:  hear it (lecture),  see it (visual aids such as power point presentations, educational videos, overhead and chalkboard),  read it (textbook and web),  teach it to others (activities such as group discussions and class debates on the internet).

Teaching Philosophy  I believe in listening to students.  Students are not always right, but you’ll never know unless you listen carefully to them.  I use my web site to get anonymous feedback from students.  Every year my courses improve due to comments received from students.

Teaching Philosophy  By the time my students graduate, I hope they display four qualities: 1) an in depth knowledge and understanding of course content, 2) the ability to make connections between material they learned in different classes and to use what they learned in their everyday life, 3) a firm appreciation and understanding of the scientific process, 4) problem-solving and critical thinking skills that can be used for a lifetime.

Teaching Philosophy  I open the door, but students must enter by themselves.  I want not merely to give my students food for thought, but to show them how to cook--in their lives.  I love teaching and I have developed many close friendships as a direct result of teaching.