Steve

Profile: Prof. Johns

Communication Studies is a vital discipline, especially in today’s cultural and small group settings. With the increasing prevalence of divisive messages, particularly in the political and social arenas, the study of communication provides tools to critically examine and deconstruct the rhetoric of identity and politics. My work as a Communication Studies professor centers on helping others recognize the fallacies and biases embedded in mediated messages, exploring how they shape perceptions of our various identities. I believe that learning is a relational accomplishment—a co-constructed process between teacher and student in classrooms and small group environments. This collaborative approach fosters a deeper understanding of culture and communication while prioritizing inclusive methods that elevate the voices and contributions of marginalized communities.

I'm a Communication Studies educator focused on fostering inclusive, curious, and collaborative learning environments. Grounded in critical cultural and media studies, my teaching examines how identity, power, and representation shape our lived experiences. I strive to co-create classroom spaces where students engage deeply with ideas, credible sources, and each other.

I see learning as a relational process—something we build together. Whether through social media, visual culture, or flipped classroom practices, I design experiences that encourage critical thinking, creative expression, and personal connection. My goal is to help students see themselves not just as consumers of information, but as co-creators of knowledge.

As Yarborough and Fedesco (2020) remind us, “When students receive adequate support in completing activities… they are more likely to develop a sense of high expectancy and confidence.” I take that to heart by mentoring with empathy, listening through an equity lens, and encouraging students to embrace challenge, reflection, and growth.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy travel, restoring historic homes, music, college football, photography, and finding beauty in the details of everyday life.

– Steve Johns (he/him), Communication Studies

Reference:
Yarborough, C. B., & Fedesco, H. N. (2020). Motivating students. Vanderbilt University Center for Teaching. https://cft.vanderbilt.edu//cft/guides-sub-pages/motivating-students/

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