Hans Peter Vonsteinhauer

Dr. Hans Peter Vonsteinhauer's Philosophy of Education 

To be human means to communicate using spoken language. Vonsteinhauer has traveled to many foreign countries and therefore experienced first-hand the value of being proficient in other languages. Expert teachers have strong content knowledge and a passion about the language of instruction. His teaching philosophy stresses authenticity, teaching students about customs in other cultures as well as by providing meaningful, relevant information that learners can apply in a real-world setting. Through focusing on practical vocabulary words and expressions that students are likely to use when communicating with native speakers, as well as encouraging them to develop a near-native articulation, students are better able to take the language skills they have acquired in the classroom and make use of them in a community setting. 

Expert teachers create a positive learning environment where learners feel comfortable and eager to absorb new material. The teacher should be a positive role model and should encourage diversity and the acceptance of differences. It is important that educators be conscious of the fact that students learn more from their teacher than simply the subject matter being taught. 

Students should be challenged to do their best work and should be taught slightly above their current level of ability. However, they should not be pushed beyond their capabilities, but should be encouraged to obtain their individual best levels of achievement.

It is the responsibility of teachers to prepare the students of today for the ever competitive and changing world of tomorrow. The ability to communicate proficiently and effectively in another language and through the lens of another culture gives students a practical advantage over those who do not have this expertise.

• Doctorate – linguistics – UNAM
• Master's – Spanish – University of Southern Mississippi
• Master's – curriculum and instruction – Lincoln University
• Bachelor's – psychology – Columbia University
• Bachelor's – German – Wilkes University