Robert L. Harris

Dr. Robert Harris, a Lecturer in the AWP and PWP programs at the University of Maryland, holds a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, with a concentration in Curriculum Studies from the University of South Carolina, where I developed a strong foundation in designing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs. I am passionate about curriculum development, instructional design, educational research, assessment and evaluation, and professional development.

My research focused on Culturally Relevant Pedagogy, Teacher-Student Relationships, Student Engagement, Achievement, and Motivation. Additionally, while completing my doctoral studies during the COVID-19 pandemic, I was intrigued by the shift to virtual learning during that time and studied the impact of how virtual learning affected the teacher-student relationship and the student’s engagement, achievement, and motivation during that time. As an English Professor and Lecturer for almost ten years, I have experience in face-to-face and online teaching, where I have delivered engaging and interactive content on a wide range of topics, and created culturally inclusive and relevant assignments and activities, empowering students to use their voice to share their perspectives and experiences. At UMD, I have taught ENGL 101, ENGL 393, ENGL 394, and ENGL 398 and have been a certified online professor since 2023.

I am very intentional about fostering a supporting and enriching learning environment for all students, where students can connect and relate to the content and course activities. I am a lifelong learner who hopes to instill that same love of learning in my students and colleagues.