Meet Joshua–he is an ambitious computer science student at the University of Toronto with two years of teaching experience at Kidzwhiz! In fact, Josh is a past student of Kidzwhiz, which inspired him to pursue his technology degree and give back by becoming an instructor! Learn more about Josh below:

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Tell us about yourself!

Hi my name is Joshua Knott! I am currently at the University of Toronto pursuing a degree in Computer Science and Biology! With that degree, I hope to become a software engineer.  

What is your teaching philosophy?

When it comes to working here my teaching philosophy is based on actually getting to know the student.  I know that not all students learn the same way so when I approach a new student I first get to know who they are and what their learning style is.  I make sure to not come off as intimidating because I am a “teacher” but rather I am just having a conversation. Making a child feel comfortable is extremely important for their learning process, because then they will not feel hesitant to ask questions.  Asking questions is a good indicator of interest for the topic and wanting to clarify something that may not make sense to them. A student who doesn’t care about something would not want to know more, and won’t feel the need to ask questions!

Why is technology important to you?

Technology has always been a really big part of my life.  Ever since I was a child, my parents noticed my interest in electronics and put me into tech-related hobbies from a young age.  Now that I have grown older, I can’t help but marvel at how advanced technology has become in such a short period of time. I really have an overwhelming desire to be a part of the process! Especially when it comes to phones!! I love hearing about the newest iphone/google device that gets released as well as all the new features they have implemented.  Technology is so prevalent that I even switched majors in the hopes of getting a career technology related!

How long have you been with Kidzwhiz?

I have been at this company since December 2017 – almost 2 years!

What attracted you to Kidzwhiz (how did you get started)?

Long ago, I was actually a student at Kidzwhiz! I had taken a course on learning about computers, as well as a robotics course.  So many years later when I had heard about Kidzwhiz recruiting instructors, I had to sign up! I really wanted to be part of the process of helping to form a child’s interest into pursuing a technological related career.

What makes Kidzwhiz a special place to work for?

I think Kidzwhiz is such a special company to be a part of because I have the honor of possibly being a building block for a young students life. I put all my effort into making sure the kids have fun and that there is always something to take away. Just like how I was once a student, and ended up becoming an instructor, I hope to do the same for students that I meet inside of Kidzwhiz. There is so much new tech out there and Kidzwhiz is an amazing place that brings resources and a great learning space. All the child has to bring is a learning mindset and he/she will no doubt be successful!

What is a fun fact about yourself?

What is one of your favourite classroom memories?

I’ve had so many I cant pick! All the students I have taught have been so amazing and eager to learn! It’s like asking me to choose my favourite car! So many to choose from 🙂