I recognize the importance of integrating traditional approaches to learning, as well as unique course designs and technology that enable students to meet higher-level learning objectives. I know further experience as a teacher at the university level will evolve my methods and expectations. With this experience and practice, I welcome personal and professional growth, but also believe that my core beliefs will remain stable. I believe learning is a lifelong process. I believe my role in that process is to provide the tools and resources to allow students to feel safe in expressing ideas, pushing boundaries, and knowing that failure is not the end of their journey. I believe interpersonal communication is a key skill in life and strive to build an environment where students feel safe practicing these skills. Learning is a personal passion of mine. I want students to know that I want to engage in meaningful discussions with them where we explore new perspectives, approaches, and ideas together
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Teaching Statement.pdf.

North Carolina State University.
Research Methods in Political Science – Instructor of Record (PS371)
American Politics and Government - Teaching Assistant (PS201)

My PS 371 Research Methodology of Political Science syllabus and grading rubric demonstrate several values I've described in my teaching statement. First, I have high standards for my students and I work hard to provide them with all of the tools they need to be successful in the class. Second, that I encourage students to think critically about topics and explore areas of interest. I allow students a great deal of flexibility when it comes to their final project because I know the best research happens when the student is intrinsically motivated to explore a topic. Third, the syllabus demonstrates the importance I place on integrating traditional approaches to learning as well as technology that enables students to meet higher-level learning objectives. By incorporating R into my course, I knew that I was asking the students to think outside of their typical Microsoft Excel box and explore the possibilities of knowing various software packages, like R. We spent a significant portion of the second half of the class learning R because I truly believe it is the software of the future. As a former human resources representative, I know how something as simple as knowing R can set a candidate apart when applying for jobs. I work hard to provide students with a broad foundation of research methods and knowledge that can then be applied in a variety of areas.
Syllabus.
McGovern_PS 371 Syllabus.pdf.
Final Paper Grading Rubric
McGovern_PS 371_Final Paper Grading Rubric

Comments from my students will reflect my desire to have a welcoming, student-centered learning environment where students feel comfortable expressing ideas and pushing boundaries. My students also comment on how I place significant value in soliciting student input and my willingness to adapt the materials to help facilitate learning based on the feedback I receive.

" Shannon is the best TA I have ever had at NC State! Not only is she someone who I would recommend to my friends, but I would love to have her teach my future children. She works hard for her students, and she does whatever she can to make the class enjoyable. She also always spoke up when she did not feel that a situation was fair to the students, and I appreciate having a TA who can be outspoken when necessary. She has such a loving personality and great soul! She has helped me feel more confident about my future and has been so supportive of all the students in the class. She always came to class happy and energized, disregarding any issues she had outside of the class. She will definitely make a great professor one day, and I wish her all the best in her future endeavors because she is a person who deserves the best!!!"
Student Comments
McGovern_ Student Comments for PS 201_Fall 2020_TA.pdf