Teaching Philosophy
My approach to literature and language instruction is grounded in care-centered pedagogy and comparative cultural studies methodologies. I believe that literature serves as a crucial lens for understanding diverse perspectives, historical contexts, and the complexities of human experience across cultures and languages. Each text becomes a bridge for students to connect their own experiences with those of others, fostering empathy and critical understanding.
Drawing from my experience teaching French language, Francophone Quebec culture, and Canadian comparative literature, I emphasize meeting students where they are in their linguistic and cultural journey. Language learning is deeply personal and often challenging—I provide supportive scaffolding while maintaining high expectations, understanding that students come with varying backgrounds and learning needs.
In both language and literature courses, I emphasize the interconnectedness of language, culture, and identity, encouraging students to develop not only linguistic competence but also cultural awareness and critical thinking skills. Like Sesame Street's approach to inclusive representation, I believe in thoughtful material selection that ensures all students see themselves reflected while also encountering perspectives that broaden their worldview.
Course Offerings
FRE 101: Elementary French
Introduction to French language and francophone cultures with emphasis on communicative competence and cultural awareness. Students develop foundational skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing while exploring diverse francophone communities.
Key Topics:
- Basic grammar and vocabulary
- Conversational skills and pronunciation
- Francophone cultural diversity
- Interactive multimedia activities
- Real-world communication scenarios
FRE 201: Intermediate French
Continued development of French language skills with increased focus on complex grammatical structures, literary texts, and cultural analysis. Students engage with authentic materials from various francophone contexts.
Key Topics:
- Advanced grammar and syntax
- Literary and cultural text analysis
- Contemporary francophone issues
- Oral presentation skills
- Written composition development
ENG 211: Introduction to World Literature
Survey of significant works from diverse literary traditions around the world, with emphasis on cultural contexts, historical backgrounds, and comparative analysis. Students explore themes of globalization, identity, and cross-cultural communication.
Key Topics:
- Global literary movements and traditions
- Postcolonial and indigenous voices
- Translation theory and practice
- Cultural and historical contexts
- Comparative literary analysis
Comparative Literature Seminar
Advanced seminar exploring theoretical approaches to comparative literature, with focus on contemporary critical methodologies and cross-cultural literary analysis. Students develop independent research projects.
Key Topics:
- Comparative literature theory
- Translation studies
- World literature debates
- Digital humanities approaches
- Independent research methodology
C LIT 171: Introduction to Comparative Canadian Literature, Founding to 1950
Survey of Canadian literature from colonial period through mid-20th century, examining foundational texts and their cultural contexts. Students explore the development of Canadian literary identity through analysis of diverse voices and emerging national consciousness.
Key Topics:
- Colonial and early Canadian writing
- Nation-building narratives and identity formation
- Indigenous perspectives and oral traditions
- Regional literature and cultural diversity
- Comparative analysis of English and French Canadian texts
C LIT 172: Introduction to Comparative Canadian Literature, 1950 to Present
Contemporary Canadian literature focusing on diverse voices, cultural evolution, and modern literary movements. Students analyze how contemporary authors engage with themes of multiculturalism, globalization, and evolving Canadian identity.
Key Topics:
- Post-war Canadian literary renaissance
- Multicultural voices and immigrant experiences
- Indigenous resurgence and contemporary writing
- Feminist and LGBTQ+ literary movements
- Digital age and new media in Canadian literature
FL 211: The Language and Culture of Quebec
This course emphasizes the historical and contemporary aspects of the language and culture of Quebec, Canada. Students explore the development of oral histories within the province and Quebec's efforts to maintain its unique identity both within predominately English-speaking Canada and the French-speaking world. Taught in English. Literature read in translation. Meets core credit for CCI.
Key Topics:
- Quebec's linguistic evolution from New France to present
- Oral traditions and community storytelling
- Cultural identity and language preservation strategies
- Quebec literature in English translation
- Cultural resistance and distinctiveness within Canada
- Quebec's position in the broader francophone world
ENG 447: Modern Fiction
Advanced literature course examining contemporary and modern fiction through critical reading and analytical writing. Students develop sophisticated literary analysis skills while exploring diverse voices and narrative techniques in fiction.
Key Topics:
- Literary analysis and critical theory
- Narrative structure and technique
- Contemporary global fiction
- Cultural and historical contexts
- Academic writing and research
Pedagogical Approaches
Cultural Immersion
Integration of authentic materials and cultural contexts to provide students with genuine insights into francophone and global literary traditions.
Communicative Approach
Emphasis on real-world communication skills and practical language use in meaningful contexts.
Critical Analysis
Development of analytical skills through close reading, comparative analysis, and cultural interpretation of literary texts.
Digital Integration
Use of digital tools for language learning, literary analysis, and cross-cultural communication projects.
Research Specializations
Franco-Canadian Literature
My doctoral research focused on Franco-Canadian literature, examining works by authors such as Anne Hébert and exploring themes of translation, identity, and cultural preservation. This research informs my teaching of francophone literature and comparative studies.
Translation Studies
Investigation of translation as both practice and theory, with particular attention to how literary works cross linguistic and cultural boundaries. Students engage with questions of fidelity, adaptation, and cultural mediation.
Dystopian and Speculative Fiction
Comparative analysis of dystopian and speculative fiction from various cultural contexts, examining how different societies imagine alternative futures and critique contemporary issues.
Student Engagement & Projects
Students in my literature and language courses participate in various engaging projects that connect classroom learning to real-world applications:
Digital Translation Projects
Students collaborate on translating contemporary francophone texts, creating digital presentations that explore translation choices and cultural contexts.
Cultural Documentary Creation
Multimedia projects that explore francophone communities, combining language practice with cultural research and digital storytelling.
Comparative Literature Blogs
Students maintain reflective blogs comparing literary works across cultures, developing critical writing skills and cultural awareness.
Virtual Exchange Programs
Partnerships with francophone institutions for real-time cultural and linguistic exchange through digital platforms.
Learning Outcomes
Students completing my languages and literature courses develop:
- Linguistic Competence: Practical communication skills in French for academic and professional contexts
- Cultural Awareness: Deep understanding of francophone cultures and global literary traditions
- Critical Analysis: Advanced skills in literary interpretation and comparative cultural analysis
- Global Perspective: Appreciation for diverse worldviews and cross-cultural communication
- Research Skills: Ability to conduct independent research in literature and cultural studies