Dr. Mills was a phenomenal instructor! She created an inviting and respectful classroom climate that afforded us the opportunity to be vulnerable, transparent and truly learn from the class
– GRADUATE STUDENT COURSE EVALUATION
Mills has been recognized for her work in supporting students and promoting their scholarship and work. She is dedicated to including people in the conversation and designing inclusive, student-centered coursework. Students appreciate her engagement, mentorship and willingness to be available.
Teaching Philosophy
My goals as an educator are to (a) foster critical thinking, (b) encourage intellectual curiosity, and (c) strengthen oral and written communication among students in distance, hybrid, and in person learning environments. Importantly, critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and strong communication are transferable skills that can support students’ learning, growth, and development beyond traditional classroom spaces. These skills can aid students in information processing, constructive critique, self-directed exploration and observation, problem solving, informed decision making, pursuing innovation, disseminating ideas, and contributing to public discourse.
Three core elements of my teaching philosophy include:
- Facilitating a welcoming learning environment through course content and student engagement
- Promoting active learning using student-centered methods to challenge, connect, or advance students’ existing knowledge
- Embracing pedagogical innovations to implement inquiry-, activity-, problem-, and project-based learning activities
Courses
- Critical Race Theory in Higher Education
- Diversity in Higher Education
- Practicum in Higher Education
- College Environments
- Introduction to Psychology (Undergraduate)
Mentoring Approach
My mentoring approach includes five components:
- Aligning expectations and boundaries for professional growth and development
- Provide ongoing constructive and formative feedback
- Identifying opportunities for collaborative projects, professional development, and funding,
- Assisting students in acquiring resources, and
- Provide social support.
Kristen embodies mentorship talent that far exceeds her years of training and a commitment to improving student experiences that all mentors should have.
– MENTORING AWARD NOMINATION
