I strive to prepare future teachers for the successes and challenges they may face, while also ensuring they understand that they have a support system to rely on.
Clinical Assistant Professor
Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) is a powerful tool in the lives of others. As a product of CTAE and a former classroom teacher, I know firsthand that CTAE doesn’t only teach technical knowledge and skills. It also has the power to influence students’ leadership potential and career choices and open doors to new opportunities that would otherwise remain closed.
Career and Technical Education (CTE) equips students with the skills they need for their next steps, whatever those may be. This allows CTE teachers to support all students, regardless of their backgrounds or future aspirations.
I believe in the transformative power of education, and I know firsthand the profound impact that great educators can have on their students’ lives. The opportunity to teach educators is incredibly meaningful to me, and I truly enjoy seeing the remarkable work they do within their programs.
I teach for so many reasons. I believe in the importance of CTAE. As a former middle and high school classroom teacher, I strive to provide my students with the knowledge, skills, and support that I needed to succeed.
I believe learning should be authentic and meaningful. When students complete assignments similar to what is necessary in the workforce, they are more likely to understand the purpose of their work and be able to apply it to their careers.
I believe assessments should be relevant, skills-based, and focused on critical thinking. In my classes, I incorporate active learning and a variety of projects to engage students. I design assignments that require students to actively apply what they’ve learned, rather than simply memorizing facts.
My goal is always for students to find their assignments useful for their lives or careers. I hope that the course content and workload feels meaningful and helpful to my students. I also want them to feel comfortable reaching out to ask questions, seek support, or build a collegial relationship.
I want my students to leave my classes knowing that I care about both their learning and their well-being. I strive to prepare future teachers for the successes and challenges they may face, while also ensuring they understand that they have a support system to rely on. I aim for students to feel both challenged and capable, recognize how their assignments relate to their careers, and, above all, feel empowered and valued.
I am married to my middle school sweetheart. I love being a mom to two beautiful daughters.
Learn more about Carmen Pedersen.