Philosophy of Teaching
Member of the Design Research Society.
Member of the Interaction Design Foundation .
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After a decade of working in design across various industries, I made a change and entered the field of teaching. I have been a university Lecturer for over a year now and have found the experience to be both enjoyable and rewarding. My teaching philosophy is still developing, but I believe that one of the most important aspects of teaching is to encourage students to have confidence in themselves and a thirst for knowledge. I do this by identifying their abilities in both hands-on and theoretical classes and offering productive feedback during assessments.
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In practical-based courses, I employ an experiential learning approach where students learn through hands-on experiences. This method was used by my university professors that taught me and proved effective for my own learning and development as a student. I have found that it is also beneficial for my current students, as it allows for greater creativity and opportunities for trial and error.
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For theory-based courses, I strive to create a student-centered learning environment where the students play an active role in the classroom. Instead of solely listening to lectures or writing essays, we engage in group projects, presentations, and in-class discussions, which encourage students to ask questions and stay engaged with the material.
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To adequately prepare my students for the real world, desk-bound learning alone is not sufficient. They must also engage in internships to enhance their education and social skills. As their mentor, I guide them in creating strong resumes, cover letters, and portfolios. Additionally, I organize field trips throughout the semester to regional media and art events, such as Art Dubai, Dubai Design Week, and CABSAT.
- Mona Abdallah, 2022
