My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every student possesses unique brilliance and deserves to be truly heard. I strive to create an environment where students feel seen, valued, and empowered to discover their own potential. This conviction was profoundly shaped by an experience early in my teaching career.
I once taught a course at a small institute where, during the first session, a student I'll call "Oliver" (a pseudonym to protect privacy) began speaking. As I listened, I was struck by his insightful words and brilliant ideas, and I told him so. My class continued, and over several sessions, Oliver consistently demonstrated himself to be one of the best students.
Later, the institute's director asked me how I managed "that troublemaker" in my class. I was genuinely confused, as Oliver had presented no problems. When she clarified she meant Oliver, I expressed my surprise, affirming that he was doing wonderfully. It became clear that previous instructors had struggled with him, perceiving him as disruptive. For me, this was unbelievable. Oliver earned an "A" at the end of the semester, much to the administration's surprise, but it was the least I could award such a brilliant student.
When asked what I did to "control" him, my answer was simple: "First, he didn't cause any trouble in my class. Second, I just listened to him, as I listen to everyone in my class. By truly listening, I discovered his brilliance." The director concluded, "Perhaps he wasn't taken seriously before. Since he talks a lot, others might have tried to shut him down, leading him to seek attention through disruption. But you gave him space, and now he's excelled."
Honestly, I didn't implement any specific intervention to improve Oliver's grades from what might have been a C to an A. I simply allowed him to speak, and I listened carefully. That was all he needed. Years later, I learned Oliver had become a highly successful teacher himself.
This experience solidified my core philosophy: sometimes, all we need to do as instructors is listen to our students, help them identify their strengths, and empower them to become the best versions of themselves. Each student has the incredible capacity to make significant contributions to their own lives and to the world around us. My role is to foster an environment where that potential can flourish.
EDCI 270: Introduction to Educational Technology and Computing
EDCI 270 is an undergraduate course that introduces students to foundational concepts in educational technology and computing. In this course, students explore how technology can be integrated into educational settings to enhance teaching and learning. The course focuses on developing practical skills in using digital tools to create interactive and engaging learning environments.
As the instructor, I guide students in the development of Interactive Modules on topics in which they have expertise. These modules are designed using various educational technologies and are implemented in real-life contexts, allowing students to reflect on their experience and gain insights into effective teaching strategies. The course is structured to encourage hands-on learning and provides opportunities for students to collaborate, share ideas, and receive peer feedback.
In addition to teaching, I am also responsible for designing the course materials and determining the most effective methods for delivering the content. This includes creating instructional resources that align with the course’s objectives. The students in this course are predominantly senior undergraduates in Education, with some enrolled at the master's level.
EDCI 270 emphasizes the importance of technology in modern education and equips future educators with the skills and confidence needed to integrate digital tools into their teaching practice.
2017 - 2022
In my personal office, I created and implemented custom-designed software and hardware solutions that I developed. I designed and built mobile and web applications tailored to the specific needs of my students. Consequently, my students achieved improved scores in English exams like IELTS and TOEFL.
2017 - 2022
Teacher of Business and General English
2016 - 2017
Teacher Trainer, Supervisor, Syllabus Designer
2013 - 2017
Advanced and upper-intermediate levels teacher
2012 - 2017
Advanced and upper-intermediate levels teacher / teacher trainer
Student Feedback
EDCI 270 - Intro to Ed Tech and Computing
Jafar was an amazing instructor who always gave good advice and truly cared about our learning. He was fun, engaging, and understanding. He always encouraged us and made us laugh when we needed a little jolt in energy. Loved having him as my professor. I learned so much about how to integrate my classroom to be blended, online, and face-to-face. Jafar did an amazing job at explaining all of the assignments and making sure we felt comfortable with what we were supposed to do. When I had issues with how my placement or how my lesson direction was going, he had the perfect advice and helped me get back on track. Jafar also did an amazing job at reaching out to each student individually to show them how to get their TI-BOT competency completed and in the correct manner and that he wanted us to succeed. Great class!
I thought you did a GREAT job teaching this class. I was never overwhelmed and I could tell you actually cared if we passed or not. You helped me a lot and you are easily approachable. I also think that this was well organized.