Oluwaseun "Seun" Oti, PhD

Describe an experience that reinforces why you enjoy what you do. 

As a mom, researcher and practitioner, I understood how important it was to lay a strong literacy foundation for a child. During the first couple of years of my PhD program, I taught my preschool-aged child to read and write. The journey was full of challenges and struggles, but also the joy of an eventual breakthrough. That experience deepened my empathy for adults who face similar challenges and ignited my commitment to help them succeed. The success stories I have witnessed along this path, which include adults gaining confidence and children flourishing on their literacy journey, continue to remind me why I love what I do. 

What drove your interest in this discipline?

My desire to help children experience the joy of reading and to model and foster a love of lifelong learning inspired my pursuit of this discipline.

What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe that every student is capable of growth and achievement, though each learns differently and at their own pace. My role as an educator is to create a learning environment that respects and accommodates diverse learning styles while fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect. I regularly reflect on my teaching practices, refining my tools and strategies to ensure that each learner gains the maximum benefit from our time together and develops the skills, confidence and curiosity to continue learning and thriving long after they leave the classroom.

What do you hope students learn from you? 

Consistency, doggedness, perseverance and active listening.