“My courses underscore communityengaged learning that assists students in understanding the lifeways, cultures and values of communities.” DR. REANAE MCNEAL Dr. Ashley Burkett teaches Cub Scouts about micropaleontology. try to do is break it down to the basics and show them they can access it simply by making observations before accumulating knowledge.” In her introductory geology courses, Burkett tailors lessons for students with little prior knowledge or interest. “I ask open-ended questions based on the content I deliver,” Burkett said. “It’s something I’ve had to grow into — leaving space for students’ creativity. They always exceed my expectations in how they explore the material on their own. I try to equip them with the tools and confidence to dive in and make their own interpretations. And they do.” Burkett believes empowering students to take ownership of their learning is essential to shaping an Ideal Graduate. “What keeps me motivated is witnessing the excitement in students,” Burkett said. “Continuously guiding them through the experience of making the scientific method engaging and relevant and seeing how their understanding of dinosaurs evolves from the beginning to the end of the semester is incredibly rewarding.” REANAE MCNEAL — AFRICANA STUDIES During her time at OSU, Dr. Reanae McNeal has cultivated communityoriented classrooms that encourage building collective wisdom. Her approach draws on experiential learning and integrates competencies from OSU’s Ideal Graduate initiative. “In this way, I invite students to a multiplicity of worldviews, perspectives and lived experiences to understand the differences, commonalities and complexity of human experience,” said McNeal, who also teaches Gender, Women’s and Sexuality Studies courses. “My hope always is that these methods enhance students’ learning, understanding, critical thinking, relational dynamics and application of ethical leadership.” As an instructor, McNeal allows students to learn teamwork through group activities that encourage respectful communication and a commitment to continual learning. “I invite students to critically think about their role as an engaged citizen,” said McNeal, who was recognized in 2022 with the CAS Award for Excellence in General Education Teaching. “As a result, I advance students’ learning by practicing deep listening to different perspectives while developing respectful interactions. My courses underscore communityengaged learning that assists students in understanding the lifeways, cultures and values of communities.” McNeal gets continual enjoyment from assisting students on their learning journeys. She finds joy in helping students apply what they learn. “I remain invested in students contemplating and working to solve real-world problems grounded in rigorous research,” McNeal said. “Each year brings new chances to engage students in research and imagining innovative strategies that can contribute to the wellness of communities.” OSU COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES 27
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