I use sociological perspectives and qualitative approaches to understand a central paradox in higher education—how our system of education (P-20) functions to reproduce the very social inequalities it seeks to reduce.
Associate Professor of Higher Education
I have always been most interested in questions surrounding the role of education in reproducing social stratification and inequality. Specifically, I use sociological perspectives and qualitative approaches to understand a central paradox in higher education—how our system of education (P-20) functions to reproduce the very social inequalities it can also reduce.
Why do I teach? I teach because I love learning. For me, teaching is learning—it is a constant questioning of one’s taken-for-granted ideas and assumptions. I am most passionate about grappling with big ideas via social theory and philosophical questions about what constitutes knowledge with my student colleagues.
Broadly, my teaching philosophy is student-centered, equity-oriented, guided by transparency, and was largely shaped by my experience as a first-generation college student struggling to figure things out on my own. I aim to cultivate a classroom (virtual or in-person) that feels safe, open, and conducive to deep learning—where all students feel they can challenge their own thinking and that of their colleagues.
In my classes, I hope students gain (or sharpen) the ability to question assumptions and think differently. In sociology we are taught to “make the familiar strange” and that is exactly the big lesson I hope students take away from each course I teach.
Learn more about Amy E. Stich