Sr. Kathy Knipper, OSF
Associate Professor of Education

B.S. Clarke College; M.A. University of St. Thomas; EdD University of South Dakota

Educational Philosophy:
I believe learning is an active, constructive process.  Cognitive growth is best nurtured in a social environment in which students are active participants and where they are helped to reflect on their learning. Dialogue and interaction give students social encouragement to tackle complex tasks while providing the support needed for success in the both the classroom and workplace.

I believe that teaching and learning involve reflection and action.  Not only do I reflect on my own teaching, I also encourage students to question teaching methods and think about the consequences of their choices.  This reflection happens in classroom discussions, reflection papers, collaborative groupings, class presentations, and/or practicum experiences.

I believe in connecting students' learning with something they value, know and do.  Motivating and facilitating learning becomes easier when the learners feel heard and respected.  Each student's thoughts, ideas, feelings, and perspectives teachers so they can integrate theory  from coursework with real practice in the field.  These meaningful experiences link preservice teachers with what goes on in a real classroom and provide them with the means of developing their critical thinking skills, teaching proficiencies, and self-awareness.