Written for ENG 395. Implicit biases are attributes we assign to individuals based on stereotypes. Everyone has implicit biases; it’s determining what they are that’s the complicated part. In any setting where interaction with the public is expected, it’s important to understand what our biases are and how they may affect our interactions. This is particularly the case with a position like teaching or tutoring, as there’s a power dynamic already present. Implicit bias can be overcome through understanding the root of these conclusions, identifying personal ideologies, and further educating ourselves and others.[read more]
Written for WGS 103. LGBTQ+ individuals have existed throughout history. Their inclusion within the media, however, has been far less consistent. Though more and more queer characters have found their way onto the screen in the last few decades, the quality of said representation is widely contested. Not all representation is created equal, nor has it aged equally. Brokeback Mountain, Moonlight, and Portrait of a Lady on Fire all exemplify different stages of representation and cinematic framing. [read more]
Written for ENG 395. It can seem confusing, overwhelming, and frankly panic inducing to have a class that doesn’t have traditional grading. I felt that pressure during the first class I took of this style, and there’s definitely a learning curve. It’s a culture shock not to have every assignment graded and at the end of the semester have to compile a portfolio of your learning. These are a few of the questions I had taking my first rubric based class, and some of the answers I discovered. [read more]