What is your current role and how long have you been teaching?
Currently, I teach both IB and IGCSE courses in Shanghai. In my school I serve as a literature and language teacher. I am also one of two CAS coordinators. I have been teaching for about 20 years now.
How did you decide to become a teacher?
From a young age I wanted to be a teacher, but life took me in a different direction initially, so I got into teaching a bit later. I am appreciative of the experiences that life gave me, as that has helped me to be a better person and teacher.
Can you share a memorable teaching moment or success story with Pamoja?
For the first time this year, one of my Pamoja EE students wrote to let me know she got an A for the essay. Obviously, I was delighted for her, but more to the point, I was delighted that she took the time to let me know because it is rare to hear about students’ results directly.
What do you find most rewarding about being a Pamoja teacher?
I love working with students from all over the world, as they provide a variety of perspectives on what we are learning. This works as professional development as it can take you down some unexpected roads as a life-long learner. In this way, the learning never stops for both students and teachers.
What advice would you give for future Pamoja students?
Take the class seriously and think very carefully about self-management because the workload is hefty. Build a good relationship with your teacher and keep them informed of your situation, so they can best support you.
What do you think the future of education looks like?
This question has acquired new meaning since the adjustments caused by the pandemic. Online learning has certainly developed into a potent and valuable option, but the real key is in building positive relationships! Students need a sense of trust to feel that they can communicate and open up to you, the teacher, in order to truly thrive. Online learning will never fully replace face-to-face teaching, but when the online teacher is willing to put in the time to build relationships, then online learning can prove fruitful and successful!
