Teacher Spotlight on Todd Joseph

I hope that students leave the class understanding how to think critically, applying psychological science to improve their lives and the lives of others, and understanding that psychology is clearly a scientific discipline.

I am known for bringing candy to class, being very flexible with deadlines, and having students collaborate on the class policies that go into the syllabus.

I love helping students understand the science of teaching and learning. They leave my class understanding that they do not have a “learning style,” that they shouldn't cram for exams, that they can’t multitask, and a host of other essential things that help them to be better students in all of their classes.

I love the personal relationships I have developed with students and seeing them change their lives through education. Thinking about how their hard work will impact their families for generations makes my efforts worthwhile. The autonomy and flexibility associated with the job are also very rewarding.

There have been so very many, but a few of them are Doug Maynard, Jerry Rudmann, Karen Griffin, Don Schiff, Karen Naufel, Karen Brakke, Noland White, everyone ever associated with Psi Beta, and my colleagues at Hillsborough Community College.

The strongest memory from my teaching career was when I brought my first group of psychology club students to the University of Akron Cummings Center for the History of Psychologyopens in new window in Akron, Ohio. Everyone, including myself, was overwhelmed by the amazing artifacts from the history of psychology on display. If you have never been, you should make it a point to visit; it is a bucket list item for anyone in the field.

The best advice is to be kind and empathetic. Students want to learn, but they especially want to learn from someone who they know cares about them.

This is the biggest professional honor of my career, and I am extremely proud to have won it. Beyond that, it shows me how valuable a connection with Psi Beta can be. My career has grown immensely from my association with Psi Beta. When I look at the list of past winners, it is incredible how many are associated with the organization. This is huge for me and the thousands of community college students who receive amazing opportunities through Psi Beta membership.

I am extremely thankful to the Society for the Teaching of Psychologyopens in new window (STP) for this award, and I would encourage anyone who teaches psychology to join STP and other discipline-specific organizations.