Dear reader,
Before we delve into my Capstone Project, I would like to speak to you about its nature. Some may consider the structure unconventional for an academic thesis; after all, my project foregrounds the importance of innovative forms of writing and student-centered pedagogy, ahead of outcomes and assessments, and here, ahead of a literature review. Rather than beginning with such a review, as is likely the norm in your respective discipline, I open with a Glossary of Terms, which previews unfamiliar concepts readers will encounter. From there, I provide a critical introduction consisting of my overarching argument and my engagement with literature, learning theory, and pedagogical best practices. This critical introduction paves the way for my portfolio of hybrid, innovative, and creative projects I completed during my undergraduate studies at Central Washington University. I precede each individual project with a précis discussing how the project utilizes literary devices and multi-genre forms to critically think about course texts and concepts.
While the entire Capstone Project is formatted in a linear structure, the sections can be read out of order. You may even find it particularly useful to read the annotated Works Consulted before the critical introduction and portfolio. All that said, I encourage you to engage with this project in whatever way works best for you.
I created this project to demonstrate the benefits of using creative methods to approach assignments that require critical thinking, focusing on, but not limited to, the academic essay. While I myself am a student within the College of Arts and Humanities, and, therefore, my research is primarily within the humanities, I invite you to consider how you may integrate creativity and innovation into your own field of study. I would also love to hear back from you, if you have any favorite or recommended approaches, since I aim to teach someday at a university. You can reach out to me using the contact form on this website.
Moreover, whether you are an educator, student, or a person interested in learning, I hope that my project provides a reason to pause and think about how you prefer to learn, how you prefer to teach, and how you might adapt these preferences.
I kindly thank you for taking the time to engage with my Capstone Project.
Sincerely,
Gabby Triana
Exploding Pedagogy 