With over two decades of experience in building dynamic learner-centered environments, I teach to engage participants with ideas and practices that can change the world. Purpose drives the design of the learning environment. Reflective practice evolves the design as learning unfolds.
The classroom — virtual or actual — is a place of transformation where critical conversations and communities of practice grow from the collaborative engagement of participants. I seek to cultivate the relationship-oriented leadership skills of students and teams, engage questions about our shared future, and create opportunities to put bold ideas to work in real life.
Select Teaching and Training Experience
UNIV 100, Lead Instructor, hybrid course. UNIV 100 is a discussion-based, 1-credit transition course designed specifically for first-year students. Using both Blackboard meetings and in-person class time, the learning activities promote student success through academic skill-building, educational planning, and career preparation during the freshman transition from high school to college.
Essential Writing Skills for Graduate Students, Lead Instructor. This four-week intensive graduate writing workshop uses iterative assignments and peer feedback to prepare students for graduate-level policy writing. PhD students serve as TA’s, and I mentor them in developing their teaching skills.
Leading Learning in the University Classroom, Lead Instructor. This 3-credit course focuses on learner-centered teaching, experiential education, and applied pedagogy. I designed and taught it first for 27 faculty members from China on a fall semester exchange program.
Close Up Foundation, Program Instructor. I led week-long experiential civic education programs in the Washington, DC area, creating unique learning environments for diverse groups of high school students from around the United States and US territories.
Global Routes, Project St. Lucia Co-Leader. I led 16 American teens on a month-long community service immersion program in St. Lucia.
Student Success and Career Development Workshops
“The Living Classroom”
“How to Teach so Students Learn”
“Powerful Presentations: Pack your Carpetbag”
“Elevator Speeches and Soundbites: Verbal Communication Strategies”
“Writing and Reaching SMART Goals”
“Show Me the Money: Grants, Fellowships, and Scholarships”
“Dimension of Wellness for Academic Success”
Shannon E. Williams 