Meet Alexander— he is a computer science student at the University of Toronto with almost 2 years of teaching experience! He has also interned at DevOps where he has gained first-hand experience of software development in this industry! Learn more about Alex below:
Tell us about yourself!
My name is Alexander Ursu! I study computer science at the University of Toronto Scarborough. I have done software development and DevOps internships in downtown Toronto, and aspire to go further in the industry.
What is your teaching philosophy?
Patience. Every kid learns and gets motivated differently, and it takes time to figure out whats best for each one. Teaching, just like anything else, takes practice. Some of the most effective things are to get students involved and feel like they have a place in the classroom. Not just sitting and listening but helping them step out of their comfort zone and actively participate. One great way is to act more like a helpful friend, rather than seem like a scary teacher. Better to get down on their level and understand what its like to be in their shoes.
Why is technology important to you?
Technology is the way of the future! Everyone should, and will, have to know how to use it in just a few short years. It’s super useful and makes life better and easier, but it can also just do cool things! Technology can do anything!
How long have you been with Kidzwhiz?
Since March 2018, just around a year and half so far.
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?
Not only can I teach, but I can also contribute to what is being taught in our programming courses. I like being able to share my knowledge and make sure that our material is on point with current standards and technology. As someone who has recently finished programming in high school, and currently learning computer science in university, it makes sense that I get to lend a hand in ways beyond just teaching. Every kid that comes in has great talent and potential for more. It’s a great responsibility to have a direct influence on their early tech education, which I’m honored to have and strive to do well with.
Why do you enjoy teaching?
Teaching is a way of learning, and also a way for myself to keep my technical and communication skills top notch. I just like helping out anyone with stuff I’m good at, like programming, and just sharing my knowledge. I like seeing different point of views and discussing about these topics so that both sides end up learning something new.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I like snowboarding in the winter, and playing ultimate frisbee with friends in the summer. I love talking about music, movies, and shows, as well as anything related to software and technology!
What is one of your favorite classroom memories?
I like seeing students continue to program and develop their skills even outside the classroom. A student before has continued sending me emails about his programming project asking for help and tips, and I’m always happy to help! Another student I’ve taught has done programming challenges and showed me the problems he’s working on and asked me to review his solutions. One of the main goals is to get students invested and care about technology. Seeing stuff like this from students is proof of reaching our goals.
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