Karen Anne Janik is a senior professor at DeVry University in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences where she teaches English. Her specialty is in composition, and she shares that knowledge with students across a variety of courses, including professional writing, technical communications, contemporary literature and career development.

 

Prior to joining the staff at DeVry University, Ms. Janik was a junior high school teacher in the private school system of Chicago. For the span of 19 years, from 1965 until 1984, she taught various subjects, such as reading, math, science, art, social studies, and literature. In 1984, she accepted a position with DeVry University. Twenty-six years later she continues develop her students into strong writers and prepare them for success, both personally and professionally.

 

Thought Leadership:

 

-       Believes the teaching and learning process, in the coming years, will more fully incorporate advances in technology. Some innovations could have the potential to effectively empower students to become more involved in the overall learning process. However, she is concerned that students are becoming overly dependent on technology and predicts that over-dependence might reduce long-term mental discipline and attention span.

 

-       As an educator, Ms. Janik believes that professional development is necessary – whether it is through attending conferences, workshops, seminars or professional reading. But she believes that it is vitally important that educators remain open and receptive to positive changes taking place and be willing to alter and/or modify traditional teaching methods, should the occasion call for it.

 

-       Understands that technology will continue to influence what takes place in the classroom. As students access computers, the Internet, software, applications, databases, etc., they have the world at their finger tips. Without actually visiting the library, students have the opportunity to do all their research on computers, making the entire learning process easier and the potential for success higher.

 

-       Teaching students is a privilege that carries a monumental responsibility.  In opening students’ minds and hearts, teachers have the opportunity to reach into the future and shape the lives of every student with whom they interact.