|
Interview - Carolyn Spillman
What was your undergraduate major when you started and when
you graduated?
I started at High Point College
(now High Point University) with an intent to be an English
major and graduated in Elementary Education. I have never
regretted the switch and use much of my background in English
serves me well with literacy courses in the elementary program.
When you think of professional mentors, who had an influence on
you?
Mrs. Ruth Worthington was my mentor
and professor at High Point College. She taught language arts
and children's literature and supervised interns. I always
wanted to be just like her.
What philosophy or theory is most appealing to you in your work?
Vygotsky's work has influenced
the way I teach. I believe in the social mediation of learning
and language and try to apply cooperative experiences for
my students.
What are some of your favorite hobbies or special interests?
In addition to my two grandchildren,
my great interest now is in growing orchids. I have about
30 of them and want to build an orchid house.
What is one of your favorite books or quotes?
The Crosswick Journals by Madeline
L'Engle have become favorites in the past year. There are
4 of them. They are the journals of the life of the author,
and they spark many reflections of my own life. I had the
opportunity to meet Madeline L'Engle a few months ago and
that was a high point in my career.
What are the courses which you typically teach?
Language Arts and Children's Literature
at the graduate and undergraduate levels have been courses
I have taught for many years. In the fall, I will be part
of the team that teaches Human Diversity. My doctorate is
in Child Development and Family Relations and I am thrilled
to be teaching the child development perspective in the diversity
course.
What are your research interests?
Language development and application
of theory to practice in this area.
What is one thing that you would like students to know about you?
Although I am in the twilight
of my career, teaching and learning still excite me. I hope
I can pass that excitement to my students.
|
