Kevin Taylor, Ph.D.
"Instructional decisions need to focus on what our students need to know, and be guided by how they are likely to apply that knowledge in professional settings particularly at a polytechnic institution like Cal Poly."
-Kevin Taylor, Ph.D.
Department Chair
Academic Background
-
University of South Carolina
Ph.D., in Physical Education Pedagogy, 1994 -
Central Washington University
M. S., in Health, Physical Education & Recreation, 1990 -
Northumberland University Newcastle
B.A., Sport Studies, 1986
Sample Courses
- KINE 100 – Adapted Physical Education
- KINE 319 – Introduction to Research Methods in Kinesiology
- KINE 407 – Adapted Physical Activity
- KINE 400 – Student Teaching Seminar
- KINE 437 – Directed Field Work
Teaching Philosophy
Teaching by definition is a “human endeavor” and, if they are truly concerned about student learning more than grades, teachers must always acknowledge the humanness in their students! Teachers must forgive students their weaknesses and work with them to help develop their strengths. Teaching should in many instances be an act of compassion. Teaching is decision making. Teaching decisions should be carefully guided by knowledge of content, knowledge of teaching, knowledge of students, of student needs, and knowledge of the unique context in which instruction is being delivered. Instructional decisions need to focus on what our students need to know, and be guided by how they are likely to apply that knowledge in professional settings particularly at a polytechnic institution like Cal Poly.
"The most important human endeavor is the striving for morality in our actions. Our inner balance and even our very existence depend on it. Only morality in our actions can give beauty and dignity to life" -Albert Einstein
Research and Interests
In attempting to operationalize Cal Poly’s Teacher-Scholar model for faculty members, my scholarly interests are an extension of my teaching. I am interested in community based learning, adapted physical activity and physical education. I am currently collaborating with colleagues in the College of Engineering to build assistive devices for people with disabilities to participate in physical activity. I continue to collaborate with members of my local community to engage Cal Poly students in delivering physical activity programming for people with disabilities.