The following are direct quotes from student evaluations of Dr. Estrada's courses.
"Before arriving in Mexico I was fully aware that this trip would change my life, but to what extent, I had no idea…Being able to share this learning of language, history, and culture has inspired us with pride and has brought us together. I believe we have forged a bond that will live for a long time."
"Every once in a great while we are presented with moments and opportunities that have the potential to change our lives, alter conceptions, and augment the future….From the traditions and the wisdom of the indigenous I have been able to understand things about myself that were perplexing before. The strength and values of my Oaxacan family has showed me the priceless value of my own family. Every once in awhile I am able to recognize just how blessed I am; I have a friend, a mentor, and a confidant who just so happens to be my professor. This wisdom and dedication I will never forget."
"To be honest, I took this Fairhaven course for the opportunity to hone my Spanish language skills in a Latin American country. Stretching my personal comfort zone was also a priority, but I initially considered Mexican history and cultural lessons to be added bonuses. However, now—nearly completed with the course—I am grateful for my language improvement, of course. But the class components which really affected me as a student and human being—were the lessons I learned outside the syllabus. Though this course may have been valuable as an introduction to Mexico if offered on campus, seeing for one's self the veracity—or discrepancy of what is written in a textbook is invaluable."
"This trip reminded me that it doesn't require a classroom to engage in life-long learning."
"It is my belief that if a class has the right mix of text material, lecture and guidance from the professor and opportunity for student participation, the student will learn almost automatically and it will take very little effort to involve the student in the learning process. I felt that Contemporary culture of Mexico was one of these classes…."
Larry immediately established a comfortable space to learn about Latinos/as, the Mexican Aztecs, and everything in between. Larry was well-prepared, had interesting and engaging class exercises, and was enthusiastic.
The reflection papers are a good way of letting students have choices and write about something that interests us more than the text.
Larry demonstrated his ability to teach a subject matter which can be very emotional for some students in an effective, non-threatening or devaluing manner.
Your classes and passions have inspired me to make cultural studies an integral part of my degree, something I want to pursue at grad school.
The material was given in such a way as to bring history to life. Contemporary issues were raised within a historical context.
It was refreshing to have a professor who knew personally about the topic and had such a passion surrounding it.
Challenging, informative, forced me out of my comfort zones.
Larry is well read in this field and is extremely knowledgeable.
I really enjoyed doing the group presentations. It makes it easier to comprehend a subject when you have more time to research it.
This is a class that I feel everyone should go through who comes to this college.
I felt this course did a good job of exposing us to a wide variety of issues and perspectives related to different ethnic groups.
I really appreciated the diversity of the learning material—video, text, speakers—because I felt it allowed the class to apply our knowledge to the outside world.
After taking this class I realized that I have been deceived by many people and many things about the way things really are. This class should be mandatory for all.
2005-06 Innovative Teaching Showcase Home | Center for Instructional Innovation and Assessment | Western Washington University Home