About Me
SUBJECTS
EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY
I believe that every student requires individualized learning and assessment. Computer technology now allows us to achieve that in nearly every subject, so technological integration into the lesson plan is essential.
I also believe that as teachers we do not only provide the learning material, but equip the student with the skills so that they may learn and self-assess individually or in groups.
My favourite kind of assessment is where students keep a portfolio of their work and creations throughout the semester so they may reflect on their progress periodically, building their confidence as they continue to tackle increasingly challenging lessons.
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
During my childhood and teens I took clarinet and piano lessons. After completing high school I studied music at Queen’s for four years with electives in calculus, computer science, German, psychology, and logic. After graduating with a Bachelor of Music Degree I took time off to work, and then returned to Queen’s to complete my Bachelor of Education with qualifications to teach high school music and computer studies/science. I also received my senior mathematics qualification.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
In high school, I tutored other students in subjects such as English, math, and computer science. For the past 10 years, I critique and tutor individuals of all ages who wish to learn classical composition, orchestration, arranging, and/or MIDI sequencing using Digital Audio Workstations.
During my teaching practicum I taught music and computer science at a high school in Ottawa, Ontario for 10 weeks (grades 9-12), and Mohawk as a second language at another high school in Tyendinaga, Ontario for 3 weeks (grades 1-4.)
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
I practice and perform on clarinet with the Frontenac Community Concert Band in Kingston, Ontario. I also enjoy music composition, game development, and website development.