Engaging Classroom Insights and Reflections

Nov 19, 2024

Lecture Summary

Class Activities

  • No Class Reflection Assignment.
  • Requirement: Submit a selfie to the designated folder to confirm attendance.

Stream Team Opportunity

  • Call for Volunteers: Interested in film and video, specifically directing and live streaming.
  • Experience Gained: Opportunity to engage in live directing, beneficial for those interested in television.

End of Semester Reflections

  • Open floor for student questions and discussions.

Key Questions and Responses

Travel and Cultural Experiences

  • Bangladesh: Lecturer has not visited but is interested in cultural and societal dynamics.
  • Korea: Multiple visits and appreciation of East Asian culture.

Personal Insights

  • Evil Laugh: Used as a coping mechanism in dealing with life's balance of pain and laughter.
  • Handling Criticism: Lecturer does not read negative comments and focuses on staying fair and balanced.

Teaching Philosophy

  • Class topics arise organically from conversations, questions, or current readings.
  • Preparation involves outlining key questions and inviting relevant students to share perspectives.

Shifts in Student Demographics

  • Notable shift: Increase in middle and upper-class African American students at Penn State.

Topics of Controversy

  • Discussions on being labeled dangerous or radical by various groups.
  • Efforts to remain balanced and fair.

Technological Impact

  • Technology seen as both positive and negative for communication and connectivity.

Student Engagement

  • Encouraged to ask questions about diverse topics such as race, technology, and personal experiences.
  • Emphasis on understanding and appreciating different cultural perspectives.

Reflection on Teaching

  • Changed teaching style to involve more student interaction due to lack of retention from traditional lectures.
  • Motivated by past personal experiences of awakening and understanding of the world.

Additional Topics

  • Kazakhstan Trip: Interested but canceled.
  • Model Minority: Discussion on racial categorization and societal perceptions.

Closing Remarks

  • Appreciation for all volunteer contributions during class activities.