Maggie HTTN
Teaching Approach

Simplicity & Clarity in Education

Storytelling • Visual learning • Human-AI collaboration • Inclusive design

Education, like great design, thrives on simplicity. I focus on core concepts, remove unnecessary complexity, and use intuitive visuals and narratives to make difficult topics (like algorithms) feel approachable.

Pedagogy: Fostering Engagement and Inclusion

My pedagogical approach emphasizes:

  • Active Learning: Learners engage directly with tools and algorithms, experimenting with interactive visualizations.
  • Scaffolded Learning: Breaking complex topics into manageable steps helps learners progress from foundational understanding to mastery.
  • Inclusive Education: Materials are designed to accommodate diverse learning styles and needs.
  • Feedback-Driven Learning: Iterative feedback loops encourage learners to refine their understanding.

AI in Education: Human-AI Collaboration

AI in education should augment human abilities, not replace them. Inspired by Jeffrey Heer's perspective, I integrate AI into my teaching to enhance learning through:

  • Smart Suggestions: AI-driven tools provide personalized feedback and recommendations, helping learners refine their understanding.
  • Interactive Visualizations: Complex algorithms are dynamically visualized, making abstract concepts tangible.
  • Student Empowerment: Learners remain in control, using AI as a tool to support creativity and exploration.

Storytelling and Themes: Making Learning Relatable

Storytelling lies at the heart of my teaching philosophy. By framing complex concepts within relatable narratives, I create engaging and memorable learning experiences:

  • Three-Act Structure: Concepts are introduced with challenges (setup), explored through problem-solving (confrontation), and concluded with resolutions.
  • Themes of Exploration: Algorithms are presented as tools for solving real-world problems, motivating learners to discover their applications.
  • Relatable Analogies: Everyday scenarios are woven into explanations, making abstract ideas accessible to all learners.

Explainability and Trust: Building Confidence in Learning

Just as explainability is vital in AI systems, it is equally crucial in teaching. I focus on making complex ideas transparent and relatable, ensuring that students understand the “why” behind every concept. Through clear communication, interactive tools, and iterative feedback, I build trust in the learning process — boosting confidence and helping students apply knowledge effectively.

Workshops and Experiential Learning

Workshops form an integral part of my teaching methodology, offering hands-on opportunities for learners to apply their knowledge. My workshops are guided by:

  • Collaboration: Using crowdswork methods, students engage in peer-to-peer learning and problem-solving.
  • Interactivity: Learners actively explore algorithms through guided exercises and tools.
  • Iterative Feedback: Real-time feedback loops allow learners to dynamically improve their understanding.
  • Thematic Scenarios: Narrative-driven challenges make workshops both engaging and meaningful.

Theoretical Foundations of My Work

My teaching is guided by foundational theories that ensure my materials are engaging and pedagogically sound:

  • Constructivism: Learners actively construct knowledge through experience and interaction.
  • Cognitive Load Theory: Simplified designs reduce cognitive strain, allowing students to focus on core concepts.
  • Dual Coding Theory: Combining visuals with text enhances understanding and retention.
  • Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Materials are inclusive, accommodating diverse learning styles.
  • Three-Act Structure: Narrative frameworks make learning relatable and memorable.

Vision for Educational Innovation

I envision a future where AI-driven tools, narrative-based teaching, and interactive platforms converge to transform education. By leveraging technology and human creativity, I aim to create innovative, impactful learning experiences that empower students to thrive in an increasingly complex world.