Bio

I have worked as a photography professor in a variety of roles since 2007. I am currently teaching and writing courses for The University of California - San Diego - Extended Studies and Sessions College of Art and Design. Prior to this, I was an Assistant Professor in the Photography Department at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh - Online Division, where I began teaching in the spring of 2012. During my time as a professor, I wrote courses and created content for online classrooms. I've been working as a professional photographer for 18+ year; the name of my business is Fiander Foto. I specialize in shooting Weddings, Events, and Portraits.

Goals

My goal is to provide my students with new and innovative ways to learn and retain the course material. Utilizing both my skills as an educator and a photographer, I enjoy showcasing the works of my students and highlighting their own accomplishments in the field. This website is intended to display my philosophical take on teaching photography at the college level, to share my educational methods used within my online classrooms that enhance a student's learning experience, and to discuss all my responsibilities as a faculty member.

Teaching Philosophy

In Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed, he states that education can function in one of two ways. Education can either be used as a means to inform the student body of the “present system and bring about conformity” or education can be used as an instrument that facilitates the “practice of freedom”. By presenting education as the latter option, it prepares future graduates as critical and creative thinkers ready to participate within our ever-changing world. This philosophy is extremely important, especially when teaching in the field of visual arts; a discipline which is often maligned.

Freire’s two theories on education can still be seen in the world of academia.  The fact remains for both schools of thought: education is a tool that can never be stolen once earned.  No matter what the student’s gender, race or age, once he or she obtains any source of knowledge; this belongs to him or her forever.  Ultimately, it is then up to each student to decide which of Freire’s avenues to pursue; conformity or a more creative approach. Either avenue remains with the student forever; a precious gift.

Teaching Approach

There are three major aspects I like to consider when approaching my students: my communication with them, maintaining a positive learning environment, and having a sense of flexibility with them. In terms of communication, it’s important for my students to know they can communicate with me when needed. An open form of communication helps to create a positive learning environment, which helps the students succeed not only within my class but also throughout their career as a student and eventually, as a freelancer in the photography work world. In order for a learning environment to remain positive, I also believe in allowing a sense of flexibility to ensure that the students are understanding the course material, project directions, and feedback; that they are progressing in their photographic and artistic skills.