Profile - Mathew Schuster

Matt Schuster teaching

Instructor Profile

Meet Mathew Schuster
Instructor of Political Science

Master of Arts (MA) in Political Science, Arizona State University; Master of Arts (MA) in History, American Public University

Question and Answer

  • Question

    Would you list some recent accomplishments?

    Answer

    • Nominated for "Outstanding Faculty" to the Board of Trustees Award for "Teaching Excellence" in 2011 to 2014
    • Received Master of Arts from American Public University "with honors."
  • Question

    What is your approach to teaching?

    Answer

    I do not believe that it is the role of a good teacher to answer students’ questions. Rather, the role of a good teacher is to question students’ answers. The word “education” comes from the Latin word “educare,” which means “to draw out.” I want to draw out of you that which exists within you.

  • Question

    How would you describe what happens during one of your most successful classes?

    Answer

    In my most successful classes, every student participates. This happens more often than you might think.

  • Question

    What makes your curriculum interesting or valuable to students?

    Answer

    Although I teach about politics and government, I try to develop my courses so students can see how what I teach affects their lives and how they can be active members of the larger political/social community.

  • Question

    How do you help your students get the most out of your class?

    Answer

    I try to keep my classes real to show how the material we talk about is relevant to their lives, which helps to keep students engaged with the material.

Fun Facts

  • Fun Fact #1

    I am currently married to my first wife.

  • Fun Fact #2

    I have three kids.

  • Fun Fact #3

    In my mythical free-time, I enjoy woodworking and running.

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