Kelvin Smith, PhD 

My teaching philosophy began to develop in elementary school as a tutor through my undergraduate days at Auburn University and my graduate studies at Georgia Tech. I came up with a learning philosophy that I carry with me to this day. It is the notion that students do well when they study to learn, not study to pass. In other words, do not think about the grades. If you master and learn the material, the grades will follow. This type of metacognition drives how I deliver the material when I tutor or teach. I have enjoyed gaining experience as a teaching assistant and a guest lecturer for 3 years in various courses at Georgia Tech. To foster a positive learning environment, I give respect and attention to students’ needs. I accommodate questions and answer them honestly and timely. Even if I cannot answer right away, I would be glad to discuss it after class. I like to incorporate humor from time to time to loosen a potentially stiff classroom environment.

 

Participating in the Tech to Teaching Program to develop my skills in lesson planning and course design contributed to my progress as a scholar in my discipline as well. Education is at the center of what I enjoy doing on a regular basis. I love learning and sharing my knowledge with others. I am motivated and committed to education and I love it. Teaching is fun and exciting when the light goes on in the student’s mind. When I teach, I am reminded of a quote that Benjamin Franklin said: “Tell me, and I will forget (Lecturing by itself is not enough). Show me, and I may remember (Showing a student how to solve a problem is OK, but more is needed) Involve me, and I will understand (Active learning is the key to academic success in the classroom).”

 

STEM ACADEMIC COACHING

My goal on this platform is to create an environment that fosters openness, trust, and transparency with students in Academic Coaching. My passion for teaching is real because I enjoy making the complex simple and seeing the lightbulbs go off in the heads of students. My Tech to Teaching experience was great. I learned how to manage a classroom, write a syllabus, and incorporate active learning techniques. I am gifted in imparting knowledge. My teaching assistant experience and lecturing opportunities will always be memorable.

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My anxiety issues from Asperger’s Syndrome is nonexistent when I teach because I am in my element and I’m confident in the material I present. I must admit I felt exposed transitioning from being a “consumer” of knowledge to a “creator” of knowledge in the Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering PhD Program. With great advisors, I found my niche and passed my thesis defense in June 2022, and graduated in December 2022.

 

My expertise is STEM subjects and my target audience are first and second year autism college students. (All students are welcome). I have a gift for teaching and will offer Academic Coaching/Executive Functioning sessions. By being diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, I bring immediate comfort to the student because my sessions are a No Masking Zone. Simply come as you are and I will embrace you!

 

I will customize the 1-to-1 academic coaching sessions to meet the needs of the student. I will provide instruction that is logical, systematic, and clear

 

Through my gift of teaching, my mission is to produce the following results:

1. Increase understanding of concepts and make the complex simple.

2. Improve study habits, transition support from high school to college, and executive functioning skills.

3. Practical tools  to handle first-year college life.

4. Understanding how your brain works and communicating that clearly.

5. Let’s make the complex simple and I look forward to seeing you in one of my sessions. My contribution to students is my gift of teaching, mentoring and passion for learning. Academic ability alone isn't what determines whether a student thrives in college. It's understanding how your brain works and communicating that clearly.