Liza D’Souza, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Education
Education
Ph.D., Boston College, 2009
M.Ed., Wake Forest University, 1999
B.A., Wake Forest University, 1998
Classes Taught at Assumption
Curriculum and Methods in History and Social Science (5–12)
Elementary and Secondary Practicum Supervision
History and Social Science in the Elementary Curriculum
The Middle School: Concept and Curriculum
Pre-Practicum Supervision
Schools in American Society
When did you first discover your passion for education?
My passion for education stemmed from my liberal arts education. During my first semester of college, I was captivated by the inherent connections I uncovered between my coursework in sociology, world religions, biology, and English composition. As I progressed through my sophomore year, I learned that my interests extended far beyond one subject and instead encompassed the social sciences more collectively. As a result, I grew into the idea of becoming a history and social studies educator.
What do you most enjoy about forming future teachers?
Working with teacher candidates is incredibly rewarding. I often teach students in our introductory education course and then again during upper-level coursework. Watching the transformation of teacher candidates from the world of “student” to “teacher” is an incredible journey to support.
What are the top three qualities an effective teacher should demonstrate?
First, effective teachers must be lifelong learners. It’s imperative that teachers continue exploring new perspectives in both content and pedagogy. Second, teachers must be committed to building strong relationships with students, parents, colleagues, and administrators. Finally, teachers must develop skills as flexible problem-solvers. Teachers spend most of their time-solving challenges ranging from instructional dilemmas to behavior management.
What is something most people do not know about you?
While I am now very comfortable meeting new people and exploring unknown places, I was an incredibly shy child. I spent my first six years hiding behind my mom’s legs observing the world. I even had school anxiety for the first couple of years!
Did someone inspire or encourage you to pursue education as a career?
Having experienced school as a shy and reserved child, I have much gratitude for the patience and support my teachers gave me as I developed confidence inside and outside of school. As I look back on the most influential individuals in my life, my teachers are always on the top of the list.
How would you say your methods prepare future educators to take on the diverse classrooms and student needs faced by teachers today?
I am confident our graduates exemplify strong content knowledge and diverse pedagogical strategies to meet the needs of all learners. We immerse our students in over 100 hours of field-based experiences prior to 360 hours in student teaching. During field experiences, our students work directly with students with diverse learning needs including students learning English.
What is one lesson you hope students remember from your class and apply to their future careers?
I want them to have the confidence and knowledge to build strong communities of learners where students are part of the learning process and they feel safe, supported, and challenged to learn new ideas.
