I believe effective teaching begins with effective course design. As much as possible, the structure of a classroom should reflect the principles we teach.
For me, that means embracing a heterodox pedagogy that challenges
our expectations and confronts longstanding disciplinary norms.
WHAT MY STUDENTS SAY
Maxine was an incredible instructor. I came into this class just needing a general education requirement fulfilled, but she made it so much more. I honestly have learned so much from this course about American history, but more importantly why it is so significant and how it impacts the American identity today. She navigated discussions very well and was able to cater to every person’s American experience, which was incredible given how diverse our classroom was.
Defining America
Fall 2020
Maxine is genuinely one of the best professors I've ever had, both on the coursework side, and the personal communication side. Her classes encourage you to challenge yourself without causing excess stress.
The World in the Twentieth Century
Spring 2024
I really enjoyed this class. I think the professor was willing to actually have a connection with the students and made us feel like we belong. I have had some general classes that the teacher seems like they are just there to be there and you are just another number. Not this teacher. …As a non-traditional student, a mother working two jobs, it's nice to have a teacher willing to work with you, but also have a way to learn that just isn't going to kill you in the process. …THIS MADE A DIFFERENCE IN MY LIFE!
Introduction to Diversity Studies
Spring 2023
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Reviews from Western Technical College
Reviews from University of North Carolina
Every single week she dove deep into her lessons. The way she discussed EACH topic was SO engaging. She had an interesting and passionate teaching style. As students, we could speak our opinions and openly discuss “hard” issues. It was a safe and respectful space she created.
I have had some great classes and some great teachers. She stands out above them all because she was encouraging, bold, enthusiastic, and intensely positive. These topics can be tricky to teach in an unbiased way. People have their own thoughts about [social] issues before the first day of class. I would bet by the end of the term, most of her students had learned how important it is to keep an open mind and are less judgmental because of having her teach us this class.
Race, Class, Gender
Fall 2023