For my research paper this semester, I have decided to expand on a paper I previously wrote for my English 220 class, Seminar in Teaching Writing. The course was based on various teaching theories and techniques, which would be applied practically as a tutor for ENG099 students at the LaGuardia Writing Center. For this course, I had to write a research paper on noted educator James Moffett and his innovative teaching techniques. As someone who is interested in becoming a professor in creative writing, I was really intrigued to learn about Moffett's theories. His ideas included a focus on meditation, open discourse and various new techniques. For his time, Moffett was considered a visionary and was opposed to the formulaic, standardized view of teaching that had shaped the educational system of the United States during the early 20th Century.
I would like to expand this paper by researching other innovative educators who utilized alternative and experimental teaching techniques. I would not limit my research to those strictly teaching in the field of writing, but open it up to at least one professor in math or natural science and one professor in the social sciences area. I would like to find books, scholarly journals and even new media such as Youtube, blogs, etc. I have already completed some preliminary research on the life and theories of Moffett. In the current draft of the paper, I already have a well organized thesis, which is that creative learning and teaching techniques will lead to greater inspiration and academic success for students.
Additionaly, I would need to organize the structure of the paper a bit differently for the purposes of this class. In my revision, I would like to add a new introduction about the struggle between formal traditional teaching styles and the New Age inspired, creativity based techniques from Moffett and those additional professors who I encounter in my new research. Then I would segue into Moffett's bio and theories. Then do the same for the other two professors I find. Finally, I would draw comparisons between all three and then write a formal conclusion supporting my thesis. I also intend to trim some of Moffett's biography, and perhaps condense the portions about his theories to allow for a fair and balanced view of the other professor’s works. I look forward to writing this paper and am very excited to begin my research. I hope to further my knowledge on the subject of experimental teaching techniques and learn more which I can put to use in my future profession.
This sounds fascinating - go for it!
ReplyDeleteHey Alan, this sounds like a great research topic. I'm curious- the professors that you will be interviewing regarding their creative teaching methods: would they be able to provide you with statistical data? For example, statistics that show if these innovative teaching techniques resulted in better/worse grades from their students as opposed to when they used traditional teaching methods. I'd be interested in knowing what the outcome has been.
ReplyDeleteGood luck to you with your paper!
Hey Alan, this research topic seems very interesting. While reading your post I was wondering what interests you so much about Moffett's theories? Also, how long ago did you write the previous paper? I like the fact that you have written about Moffatt's biography which will tell us information about him. It was clever that you have decided not to limit your research to those teaching in the field of writing, but open it up to other professors in math and science also social science. It will show us different aspects of their views and opinions. Good luck with your paper!
ReplyDeleteNice topic bro, I like the fact that you have a clear and detail idea of what your planning to change and add in your paper. I thought your thesis was well addressed "creative learning and teaching techniques will lead to greater inspiration and academic success for students", this is so true. As a karate teacher I cannot stress enough how important it is to try and be creative with your lesson planning and techniques. Out of thought what made you want to pursue writing? was there a professor in which was able to provide what your thesis stated?
ReplyDeleteThis is a really good topic to use for this paper. English is my favorite subject, so it would be very interesting to me to use new writing techniques. You seem like you would really like to be a creative writing professor. I'm excited to read your paper.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like a great topic. I'm glad that you were able to find someone who you are passionate about to continue your research. I believe we do need more creative and innovated ways of teaching and I love that you are going to expand it to other fields of study.I am also interested in other's views on education as I feel the entire system needs a over haul!!! Good luck with your writings.
ReplyDeleteWOW I am super excited to read you paper being that i am intersted in teachin.although this migh be a little advanc becaues i am planing on entering the world of education as a 2nd grade teacher i would love to learn new techniques in teaching creativity is something that a lot off teachers a missing now a days.this blog has even motivated me to do a little research of my own and i cant wait to read yours.
ReplyDeleteHmm.. Your paper seems o be very interesting. I always like reading new ideas and this topic that you will be researching more into sounds like a great one that I will be very interested in. Another thing that you could possibly use is the video that Dr. McCormick gave to us on the first day of class. English has lots of information that you can look into and wish you the best of luck with writing this!
ReplyDeleteHi Alan _ I have one note. The project is going to be arguement-driven, so you'll have to "take a position" (which could be in favor of a school/program/ed. system adopting one of Moffets ideas, etc.)
ReplyDelete