Episode 1: Strategies for Connecting with Students featuring Sonal Kamath - Summary | The Teaching & Learning Centre | Seneca Polytechnic

In this episode of Beyond the Classroom, Sonal Kamath discusses her journey into education and the experiences that shaped her teaching philosophy. Growing up in India with parents who were both educators, Sonal was naturally influenced by her family’s commitment to learning. This environment laid the foundation for her passion for teaching and lifelong learning.

A major theme of the conversation is the importance of continual growth for educators. Sonal believes that being a good teacher requires constant learning and adapting to new methods. She emphasizes that education should be dynamic, and educators must stay open to new ways of engaging students.

Sonal also highlights the value of a student-centered approach to teaching, where understanding the unique needs of each student is key to making learning engaging and relevant. She shares how mentorship has played an important role in her development as a teacher, and how she, in turn, strives to mentor others.

Despite the challenges of managing diverse learning styles, Sonal finds the rewards of teaching deeply fulfilling. Seeing her students thrive and grow fuels her passion and commitment to education.