I believe that language, literature, and culture are key components to help students realize not only what makes them unique human beings, but also what makes them part of a community and how they can contribute to a more egalitarian society. In our globalized and technological era, students face rapid changes in the symbolic order that do not necessarily coincide with their core beliefs. One might say that such changes constantly challenge their identity as well as their ideas about what seems different and becomes the other. With this in mind, I see the language/literature/culture classroom as one of the most meaningful arenas in which to engage students in a dialogue that aims to help both students and teachers assess their individual and cultural realities. Being a native Colombian living in the US for the past eleven years has been a starting point for fruitful conversations that give students—and myself—a better understanding of our preconceptions of other cultures, of our differences and similarities, of the difficulties faced by a second language learner, and how we can all benefit from cultural exchange.
I believe that teaching students to develop pragmatic and critical skills should go hand in hand with teaching them a sense of appreciation for knowledge, regardless of its instrumental value, and a desire for becoming a creative, curious, and active member of society. I think that one of the best ways to accomplish these goals is through a comfortable, yet hardworking, environment that encourages student participation through constant use of the target language, and the development of a personal interest in the subject of study.
I see education as an ongoing activity; thus, I also see myself as learning from students and the intellectual interactions that take place in the classroom. This attitude drives me to consistently read and consult with colleagues about different pedagogical approaches and the nuances of their implementation in a language/literature/culture class. I also see teaching as a way to give back to my community, one that is not limited to geopolitical barriers.