Our Mentors - Information Technology

Featuring our top mentors – Johan Dams

The best part of teaching according to Johan is witnessing those moments where a student truly gets it, or goes above and beyond the class material to improve their skill set. Johan can give students direct and up-to-date information on the expectations in the working life since he only just returned to teaching at VAMK after having worked more than a decade in the industry.

“Going to a Masters’ program is not just about the course, but also the networking opportunities with people from the industry – something that can start already in the classroom.”

1. Please present yourself shortly and your role in VAMK Master School?

My name is Johan Dams, I am responsible for the Masters’ courses in the IT department.

2. How do you see your role as a teacher in VAMK Master School?

I see my role, perhaps a cliché, as someone who helps open doors so students can walk through them. The best part of teaching is witnessing those moments where a student truly gets it, or goes above and beyond the class material to improve their skill set. I hope to get a lot of feedback from students, both positive and negative so the courses can evolve and get better over time.

3. What kind of pedagogical principles and solutions do you use?

This is difficult to answer: you use whatever makes sense for a particular group, and tailor the tools as needed. Naturally, one tries to be motivating, using real world examples and stories, and stimulate critical thinking and creativity. I also believe it is important to look across disciplines, especially in a Master’s course where knowledge and experience from outside the core field play an important role.

4. What kind of concrete examples can you give about the collaboration between VAMK Master School and working life?

I only just returned to teaching at VAMK after more than a decade in the industry. I can give students direct and up-to-date information on the expectations in the field, both in Finland and abroad. Students should understand that going to a Masters’ program is not just about the course, but also the networking opportunities with people from the industry – something that can start already in the classroom.

5. Why would you encourage potential applicants to choose VAMK Master School?

It’s always a good idea to expand one’s horizons, and to take on a challenge – especially in the technology field. If the challenge leads to an additional degree, or opens up other opportunities, it’s a win-win situation.

Connect with Johan on LinkedIn

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