El Centro College Arts and Sciences Division

I teach regular lecture classes and online classes. My goal is to make American Government both relevant and interesting. Students often ask why they have to take government, I try to answer that question by demonstrating the importance of being informed and involved. When students understand that they can make a difference in their communities through political participation, the subject matter becomes more exciting. I use current events to teach the concepts we are studying, and aim to impress upon the students how the government (local, state and national) impacts their lives on a daily basis. Technology plays an important role in my instruction. I rely on the internet to help present information that is timely and relevant. My lectures are supplemented with PowerPoint presentations which the students have access to through eCampus. I also believe students can learn a great deal from each other, so I encourage spirited discussion. One of the things that motivates me as a teacher is the idea expressed by the father of the constitution, James Madison:
“Knowledge will forever govern ignorance; and a people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives.”