Paul Lowman is a devoted and talented teacher. He was born in the Caribbean, on small islands off the south coast of the US. He went to primary and high school on the island and then went to Jamaica University to study communications. Later, Paul went to the United States to study broadcasting and communication at Florida international university. He then went on to study management information systems which specialized in organizing business processes about IT. After working part-time at University College, introduction to IT, he started working full-time. The schedule is comprised of 6 classes along with labs and busy family life. Paul is planning to finish his Ph.D. but has not yet chosen a type of degree. He likes writing and is planning to research several topics. When describing himself in 5 words, Paul said that he is “hardworking, ambitious, adventurous, innovative, and adaptable” (Lowman).
Paul’s high school teacher encouraged him to use the computer in the lab and to continue studying and receive a master’s degree. Now, he is very appreciative of the advice she gave him such a long time ago, and says that “I always hear her talking in my head…” (Lowman). His mother is another important influence in giving his life structure and order. Paul’s response to the difference in student’s abilities proves that he is a skilled professional. His way of adjusting to the personal needs of students consists of visual aids, lectures, and clarity of explanations. When grading someone’s work, he writes personalized comments and lets students know what they need to work on. If a student has grammatical mistakes, he gives pointers as to writing and language, whereas students who speak English well are directed to a higher level.
He has moved to the United Arab Emirates 2 years ago and is planning to stay for some time and become an associate or full professor at Abu Dhabi University. He has noticed that the education that is given to the students is not appreciated sometimes, as people take it for granted. The social changes that are taking place relate to women being educated and their personal and social roles changing. The long-standing role of staying at home and raising children is shifting towards education and being able to provide proper advice to children. The fact that Paul notices this, together with his teaching abilities, shows that he has given his career a lot of thinking. Also, he knows what he wants out of life, which is to finish his studies and raise his two children. He rightfully mentions that moving from one place to another has its benefits, such as a different setting and a chance to see the world. But on the downside, adjusting to the local environment takes time and if there is too much moving, a lot of time is wasted to the adjustment in the new place. Sara, a student who took Paul’s class describes him as “the most ambitious person I have ever met”. Fatima also speaks very highly of Paul: “he will do the best just to let the student get the point, he is such a caring person”. It is clear that Paul is an intelligent person who loves what he does—teaching, and enjoys the challenges that can be found on the way.
Reference
Lowman, P. (Interviewee). Personal Interview. [Recording]. Abu Dhabi, UAE.