Teaching Philosophy
The initial thing that drew me to philosophy was its ability to give new and interesting perspectives on issues and problems. One of the most rewarding things I do is introduce students to how philosophy can aid in giving them new and interesting perspectives on their lives and the issues and problems that matter to them. Through gaining such perspectives, my goal is for students to develop the intellectual virtues of charity and humility, which I believe are necessary for becoming a good critical thinker. My selection of readings is often aimed at opening up these perspectives, which are paired with assignments (analyses, reflections, and papers) aimed toward critical engagement with the arguments and positions these perspectives bring to the table.
Teaching Testimonials
As a first-generation college student, having a philosophy professor in college recognize my potential and help me develop was a major factor in my going to graduate school. I believe she was so successful, in part, because she tried to get to know her students. By following this model I have built trust with my students, which is helpful when bringing different, often marginalized, voices to the discussion who may not have been willing to contribute without knowing it was a safe space not only to speak, but also to make mistakes. In building this trust, I have built relationships with former students who have very graciously written letters testifying to my abilities as an instructor.
Letter One | Letter Two | Letter Three
Letter One | Letter Two | Letter Three
Courses Taught
African American Political Philosophy
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Sample student comments:
"The best part of the class was the class discussion. I think Matthew embodied a Freire teaching style. He taught, however, he was a part of the conversation and facilitated the conversation really well. Even when my ideas were abstract he tried to understand, what I was saying. In some lecture classes, you just listen to a teacher talk about their knowledge or opinion." "He balanced classroom facilitation really well, presented concepts clearly, and did a good job translating student comments when necessary to make them clearer for the class or relate them to the reading. I also felt like he walked the line really well between not accepting racist/hate speech while making people feel comfortable taking chances on sharing opinions they weren't sure were "right". He was informal, but in a way that trusted students to do the work they were supposed to rather than accept lower standard work." "Phenomenal instructor. Even when the class had nothing to say, you were always trying to find ways to engage us, which a lot of professors won't do. It was obvious he cared deeply about our learning and comprehension. 5 stars!" "He is very easy–going, kind, informed, and overall a great instructor." |
Making Sense of Ourselves (UNC, Spring 2018)Course Summary:
This course will serve as an introduction to philosophy while trying to overcome one of its greatest challenges: “know thyself”. Throughout the course, students will critically engage with a variety of contemporary philosopher’s thoughts on questions such as, “What is the self?”; “How does society influence our lives?”; “What is it to be oppressed?”; “Do we have free will?”; “What is it to be virtuous?”; and “What is the meaning of life?” Students will engage with these questions via class discussions, online forum posts, and writing exercises, which are aimed at developing student’s ability to critically think, analyze, and argue. Download Syllabus |
Sample student comments:
"This course explored papers relevant to a contemporary undergraduate student, led by a relatable graduate student. While some concepts had potential to be confusing, Matt took the time to explain each paper to the level of everyone in the class." "Matt Hernandez is a GREAT lecturer. He is engaging, charismatic, and passionate in front of the class. He makes it a point to ensure every student understands and try different approaches if some people don't. He uses comedy to keep us interested and to maintain a humble persona. He includes us, his class, in the decision making of the style of the course and the readings we chose...often adjusting based on how it seemed like things were going and I have never had a professor or TA do that before and I think it is incredibly effective to check and see how the course is going throughout, rather than waiting for course evaluations at the end. In a way we have evaluated the course many times to constantly improve it and I think every class could benefit from this technique. He was incredibly flexible and understanding towards his students. Really glad I took this class." "Matthew's desire to grow young philosophers and passion for his work was exemplified each day in class. He made sure that each student understood and encouraged growth and development." |
Moral and Philosophical Issues of Gender in Society (UNC, Fall 2017)Course Summary:
This course is intended as an introduction to the philosophical issues regarding gender and society. We will begin with an overview of important concepts in feminist philosophy, such as oppression, gender, femininity, and masculinity. These concepts will serve as a framework as we move forward in the course, studying the ways power and domination manifest through our gendered relations. We will then turn to look at the ways multiple oppressions interact with, support, and undermine these gendered relations. Download Syllabus |
Sample student comments:
"I think that Matthew Hernandez was a great instructor for this course. He knew the topics well and was able to lead discussions on touchy subjects with clarity and respect for every student. I think that he also did a great job with respecting every opinion given." "It is very clear that this instructor cares a lot about whether or not students are benefiting from the course, which is refreshing considering how many professors don't see students as anything but numbers. I am glad that the instructor asked for feedback halfway through the course so as to alter it to benefit us more." "Matthew is quirky and awesome. Very relatable and eases the class atmosphere so that we are comfortable discussing uncomfortable topics." |
Ethics of Peace, War, and Defense
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Sample student comments:
"I think that Matthew Hernandez was a great teacher. During discussions he didn't really take sides, but instead probed with questions. Overall, great course." "This course helped improve my analytical and critical thinking skills. It allowed me to think on a much deeper level that I am used to and the professor did an excellent job teaching." "A fair and funny instructor, who displays his knowledge and interest in the material. Hernandez always did a satisfactory job of including the class and developing the discussion." "Good attitude and behavior to such a contentious class. He should be an example of how all teachers should approach all subjects." |
Taught as Teaching Assistant & Peer Mentor
Robertson Scholars Ethics Symposium (UNC/Duke, Spring 2019)
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Sample student comments (UNC):
"I enjoyed Matt's humor, he made the information more relative to current issues and I enjoyed that." "Matthew did a great job of explaining the material, and he gave me great tips on how to further improve my essays for this class. He also did a great job of explaining what was expected of us in this course." "Matthew was very helpful and knowledgable about the class material. He did a good job of helping students understand the confusing subjects of the course. He was engaging and made recitation fun for the students who came. If anyone needed extra help he was always willing to assist." |
