Learning Philosophy

Learning Philosophy

I have chosen the Master of Arts in Information and Learning Technologies Program because I have a passion for ensuring that future generations have positive educational experience using a combination of technology, science, and mathematics. I’m a recent graduate from the Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Science at the University of Colorado with a BA in Astronomy. During my undergraduate career, I realized that I wanted to be a science communicator. I took advanced classes in Spanish to allow myself to reach a wider audience in K12 science education. This passion for using technology to teach science grew when I accepted an employment position at Fiske Planetarium at the University of Colorado, Boulder campus. I’ve had the privilege of working closely with astronomy students from diverse backgrounds at Fiske Planetarium. I have experience in teaching students of all ages, abilities, and socioeconomic status.

I have experience using technology to demonstrate scientific topics. Through my work at CU Boulder’s Fiske Planetarium, I was able to become proficient in educational theater technologies. Digital Sky is a live-rendering planetarium software that allows students to “travel” anywhere in the universe. In addition to running the museum’s large planetarium, I also ran outreach trips with our portable mini-planetarium. I would take a mini-dome to schools and museums across Colorado to bring them the joy of learning about astronomy. Additionally, I have experience developing and creating museum exhibits using a variety of technology like that used for Science On A Sphere. Science On A Sphere is a large, spherical projection of planetary data visualizations controlled using an iPad or PC. My ability to use different technologies while at the same time explaining educational content has given me the opportunity to grow as an educator.

My core values support my success in the Master of Arts in Information & Technologies program because I believe that access to education is essential to an individual’s well-being, and technology like the Internet has made education accessible to more people than ever. I have a passion for science and mathematics and for ensuring that all students, regardless of background, know the importance of both. This degree program will give me the skills I need to design and facilitate online learning opportunities for learners in higher education, K-12, and corporate settings. I can identify with students who struggle with school because I was one of them. I am able to connect with low income students and students from all backgrounds due to my rough childhood. What I aim to focus on, closing is the digital divide. As an instructional designer I'll be especially mindful of this divide and work harder with students who do not have access to educational technologies at home. I know that equality does NOT mean giving each student equal attention. Certain students will need and deserve specialized teaching.