TEACHING |
My goal as an educator is to prepare students in the skillful application—and critique—of critical social theory and feminist STS frameworks and research methodologies. The courses I teach cultivate an understanding of environmental, social, and cultural configurations as deeply historical and never inevitable. Through the study of power relations, knowledge production, and constructions of nature, my students explore the dynamisms that animate socio-environmental change and conflict. Because of its capacity to reveal a world in motion, I treat intellectual thinking as a tool for empowerment and social change in the classroom and beyond: I use exercises and assignments that present criticality and rigor in the analytics of power as values that are complemented, rather than compromised, by practices of generosity and attention to difference. With this foundation, I emphasize three things in my teaching: 1) Critical thinking and the ability to evaluate arguments and evidence, deconstruct dominant narratives, and challenge their own assumptions about environmental problems; 2) skill in applying theoretical frameworks construct compelling claims and communicate effectively; 3) collaborative knowledge production through community engagement and project-based learningTeaching statement.
I teach courses that center the study of political ecology, cultural production, science and technology, and colonial and military violence across diverse disciplines and bodies of students. My discussion exercises and writing assignments equip students with critical thinking and communication tools, (re)center marginalized knowledges, and situate collaborative learning in students’ diverse positionalities. As a mentor in the Berkeley Connect Program and Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship Program, I have also enjoyed working one-on-one with students to integrate intellectual inquiry, analytical writing skills, and applied research methods. |
STUDENTS SAY:
“Ashton was awesome! Very enthusiastic, understood that a lot of the material and readings were very complex and hard to understand, but did a great job breaking it down for us. Well organized and responsive. Good job at allowing everyone to equally speak during section and getting students to expand their thoughts and ideas.”
(Political Ecology, Spring 2017)
“She's been a great GSI! Super approachable, super inspirational, very helpful (within the class and outside of class)! Seriously one of the best GSIs I've ever had!! She also facilitates discussion very well and encourages us to challenge our own perceptions on the topics!” (Political Ecology, Spring 2017)
“Ashton is a very helpful and approachable GSI. She is always willing to work with students to help answer our questions. Discussions were engaging and thought-provoking. Activities related to deconstructing engineering projects were especially useful.”
(Engineering, Environment & Society, Spring 2016)
“I had a great experience with this Berkeley Connect because of my mentor and am so glad I took it.”
(Berkeley Connect, 2016-17)
