My Teaching Style

General Approach

If you're considering taking a philosophy course but are worried it might be all stuffy old texts and abstract ideas that feel disconnected from life, I aim to change that. My name's Jessica Willson, and I teach a range of introductory philosophy courses. Currently: Intro to Ethics and Healthcare Ethics. 

My classes are designed with students in mind—whether they're juggling other courses, work, or just trying to get through the day, I strive to make philosophy not just approachable, but engaging and maybe even a little fun.

Philosophy is tough, no doubt about it, but it doesn't have to be impossible or boring. My goal is to find readings, videos and other forms of media that make the concepts accessible and manageable. Especially for students who might be taking a philosophy class for the first time, and might not need to take one again. Lectures are fairly short often around 30 minutes, quizzes are 5-10 questions, writing requirements are meant to be manageable, and no one assignment counts for more than 25% of a grade, often much less. 

I try to mix things up by bringing in diverse perspectives, and not just the usual voices from centuries past. My courses aren't  just about reading old texts—they're  about connecting and ctritiqing the dots between those old ideas and what's happening in the world today.

Everyone learns differently, demonstrates their learning differently, and and life happens to all of us while were trying to get s#!t done, so my courses are designed to fit around students' schedules and learning styles. Whether someone is into lively discussions, reflective writing, or just trying to take it all in, there's space for them in my class. I drop low scores for weekly assignments, allow for free skip weeks, offer assignment alternatives when possible, I don't grade attendance, I make extensive study guides, and am responsive to student feedback. 

Though I try to keep things laid-back and approachable, and I might poke fun at the stuffier side of philosophy,  I'm serious about ensuring students walk away with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the subject. My courses aren't easy exactly, but my goal is for them to not be unnecessarily difficult or confusing. 

Students should always know exactly what is expected of them and when. If you take one of my courses and do not find this to be the case, I'm not doing my job as well as I'd like!

So if you're are looking for a philosophy course that's relevant, inclusive, and tailored to real life, I think we'll get along just fine. Let's explore the big questions together, without all the pretentiousness. See you in class!

Class Flow Example

Here is how the class will generally operate:

Assignment: You read the assigned readings and/or watch videos

Turn in: Reading quiz due on Canvas before lecture opens

Watch: Lecture on readings and related material

Turn in: Lecture Quiz on Canvas

Assignment: You think about readings and lecture

Turn in: You post a reflection on Canvas before moving to next module

Repeat.