If there is one thing you take from Paul Hawkwood's class its Plato’s allegory of the cave. It’s the one thing most students never forget. Paul Hawkwood, a writing instructor at LBCC, is great about spreading the Philosophy of a famous writer and Greek philosopher Plato, in his work to help understand the need to learn. Even in writing, Plato’s cave can come in very handy, making you think outside of the box.
You may have heard his name before; Paul Hawkwood proceeded to help with finding a new system other than Blackboard. He helped test out Angel and Moodle. He is one of the many we can thank for the change.
Paul has worked for LBCC for 27 years. He teaches an abundance of writing classes.The one he loves the most is English 104. He says “it’s a lot of fun, because people can relate to it the most.” Paul also teaches WR 121, 122, English 207, Asian Literature, African Literature, and non-fiction essay writing. As you can see he is a very busy professor.
If you have never heard of Plato’s allegory of the cave, I advise you take one of Mr. Hawkwood’s classes. You will not only learn new ways to write, but you will also learn things that you can apply to everyday life.
Interview:
Q&A
Q: Why do you like teaching?
A: I like learning, learning is interesting. I have an Impulse to share my enthusiasm on why things are interesting, how they solve problems or how they help us see the world in more interesting, clearer light. I do that for myself and get excited to help others learn. I have an inborn drive to share, explain and be enthusiastic about ideas that people find interesting.
Q: what made you come to LBCC?
A: I applied in 1985, and when I came to the school for my interview, I was immediately comfortable with the school and especially the people in the English department. “I feel very lucky to be in this department.”
Q: What are your classroom challenges?
A: The main challenge is to see how to help everyone learn. People learn in different ways. Sometimes I’m saying something and students are hearing another, or I’m saying something but it’s not getting across. The challenge is how do I help get students engaged in the material, how do I help them get excited and interesting in it? Other challenges on my end are keeping up with grading. Also getting students who are under performing to come and talk to me, give me the opportunity to help them out.
Q: How much time have you spent on your career?
A: been working for LBCC for 27 years. Did undergraduate school for 2 ½ years. And collage for 5 years, because I had 2 majors and a minor. I have Religion Major, English Major, and a Minor in music.
Q: What are your hobbies?
A: I like to do photography, bicycle, run and cook. I listen to a lot of audio books on my commute from Eugene to Albany. I am the tech support person for mac computers for my friends and family. I enjoy learning how technology supports us in being creative, and productive, and understanding the world. It’s a great tool for exploring the world.
Q: If you had a choice to sit down with a writer of your choice who would it be and why?
A: Raymond Carver, He seems to convey a lot of passion in his writing. He doesn’t do hallmark kind of writing. It’s enjoyable. I would also like to sit down with Shakespeare but he would have to learn to explain in different English.
At A Glance______
Who: Paul Hawkwood
Where: NSH-201
Education: Masters in English with a specialty in Composition and Rhetoric, Degree in Religion.
Things to do during a long drive: Listen to audio books.
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