This semester I began teaching Introduction to Web Design at a local college as an adjunct professor. As a web designer and developer in the marketing world for over 7 years, I welcomed the chance to equip the next generation with those coveted HTML, CSS, JavaScript and Strategic Design skills that companies seek. But more than teaching that, my bigger goal was inspiring true excitement for the creative process and pride in bringing ideas to digital life. And I’m thrilled to report - it’s working!
I structure each class to mirror real briefs: understanding audience needs, sketching responsive layouts, coding interactive prototypes. I weave in my own stories of pitches that wowed clients and times we rescued disastrous sites. Their eyes light up realizing I face the same challenges! By showing my failures and wins, it humanizes the journey to mastery.
When questions arise on code specifics, instead of giving the answer, we “Google it Together” researching solutions like professional dev teams. This hints that coding is less about memorizing and more about problem-solving; there are no true experts, only lifelong learners. I emphasize that stack overflow instances outnumber expertise.
As projects took shape with CSS animations and complex JavaScript, I saw creativity I never expected. What started as my template designs transformed into diverse, dynamic sites showcasing their distinct personalities. And their pride sharing finished work made my year. I was them just 10 years back!
My first teaching experience is proving more rewarding than expected. Can’t wait for the rest of the semester!
Have you gotten the chance to turn professional expertise into classroom inspiration? Please share your lessons learned in teaching technical creative fields!
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