Academic Staff

Biography

Balwez is an Assistant Lecturer in Civil Engineering, specializing in Surveying Engineering. He began his academic career at Salahaddin University in November 2019 before joining the University of Raparin.

He obtained his B.Sc degree in Surveying Engineering from Salahaddin University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region – Iraq, in 2016, and completed his M.Sc in Surveying Engineering at the University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran, in 2024.

Currently, he is a member of the academic staff in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Raparin, where he actively teaches and contributes to the advancement of the surveying engineering curriculum.

Philosophy of Teaching

During my years of teaching in a college of engineering, I have observed notable differences between my students’ backgrounds and my own experiences as an undergraduate. These observations have shaped my teaching philosophy. I recall that in my undergraduate studies, I benefited immensely when instructors acknowledged that each student learns in their own way. Reflecting on those experiences, I strive to treat each student as an individual learner.

Every class I teach is composed of individuals with diverse cultures, attitudes, and levels of academic preparation. Recognizing this diversity is crucial in higher education. Therefore, I strive to present course material flexibly, using multiple methods to engage a broad range of students. For example, I often complement lectures with visual aids, real-world examples, and collaborative activities. This adaptability helps ensure that the content is accessible to students with different learning styles and backgrounds, enabling them to grasp complex concepts at their own pace.

Empathy is another cornerstone of my teaching approach. I continually put myself in my students’ shoes to better understand their challenges. I ask myself how I would like complex material to be presented if I were learning it for the first time. This reflection influences how I balance the depth and pacing of content with an approachable teaching style and a strong student–teacher rapport. By doing so, I encourage questions and maintain a supportive classroom atmosphere where students feel comfortable engaging with the material and expressing their ideas.

Moreover, I believe in the power of connecting theoretical concepts to real-world applications. During my own undergraduate years, I found that courses became far more engaging and understandable when instructors related concepts to practical engineering problems. Inspired by this insight, I make a deliberate effort to contextualize each topic with examples from industry practice or current events. This real-world context not only aids comprehension but also highlights the relevance of the material, motivating students to see the value of what they are learning.

Finally, staying current with the latest developments in my field and utilizing modern teaching tools are integral to my philosophy. I regularly consult recent research and integrate up-to-date case studies into my lectures. I also prepare clear, well-designed presentation slides and use multimedia resources when appropriate. By combining content expertise with effective presentation techniques, I aim to deliver engaging, contemporary lectures that model a commitment to ongoing learning and innovation.

Overall, my teaching philosophy is built on understanding student diversity, practicing empathy, and making learning relevant and accessible. These principles—shaped by both my teaching experience and my own journey as a student—guide me in creating a supportive and effective classroom environment for all learners.