Design Forward
An emergent exploration of critical instructional design.
Design Forward
Portfolio Part: Against All Odds
Student Biography
Against All Odds
In this exercise you will explore the stories and lives of your current students. You may choose to write a biography (incorporating the elements identified below) or you may choose to draw or otherwise represent a student (again, finding some way to incorporate the identified elements). Be as specific as possible, but think of your imagined biography as an amalgamation of students, rather than the actual biography of an individual student you know:
Elements to include:
- Name
- Hometown(s)
- Childhood education experience: type of school attended, typical grades, relationship with teachers, overall impression of what school is for z Family background: How may parents, siblings, etc. Who do they live with? Who do they have close relationships with?
- Interests & hobbies
- Declared major(s) or minor(s)
- Future life goals
- Stressors and obstacles
- Opportunities and comforts
Teresa is a sophomore at PSU who is enrolled in one of my Spanish classes. She was born and raised in Pennsylvania, but her family had emigrated from Central America before her birth.
I perceive her as being an introvert who feels ashamed of her surroundings when she turns on her camera during Zoom calls. She comes from a working-class family that struggles to raise children in a culture so unlike its own. Teresa and her siblings translate documents, phone calls, and doctor’s appointments for her parents, a huge responsibility for a child to have.
A college degree can pave the way to career opportunities which will lead to a better life for the entire family. Although she is in a precarious economic position at the moment, Teresa makes the absolute most of the resources at her disposal. For example, in an attempt to save money, she is taking online courses this semester, but it has proven challenging since she shares a house with many family members. The cost of some textbooks also made it difficult for her to purchase them this semester.
Although she’s struggling financially, she continues to study to become a nurse. To help others in need, especially those with language barriers, is one of her goals. While it has been challenging to navigate certain environments and stereotypes as a student of color, she keeps a positive attitude and focuses on her studies above all else.
When you’re done, write 1-2 paragraph reflecting upon the student you have created. Where did you get your inspiration? How is this student like/different than you were as a student? As a teacher, what do you think are the 3 most important things you can do for this student?
Contrary to her background, mine is privileged. I attended private schools, grew up in the suburbs, and both of my parents were college educated. I identify with Teresa, however, because I am aware that minorities, people of color, and immigrants have to make major sacrifices in order to succeed in this country. Still, there is hope for a better life.
I have encouraged Teresa to be proud of her roots and identity. As a result of taking my class, she will be able to communicate more effectively with her family members as well as contribute positively to her community.
I have occasionally granted her extensions when she felt overburdened with assignments.
In order to assist her, I have gathered information from some university resources available to her. Luckily, I found people with a heart of gold, who were willing to help.
In the interim, I was providing her with the course materials until she could afford purchasing her textbook.
