Business Administration - Mary Scarborough

Greeting to the Student:
Welcome!  When people I meet ask what I do, I am very proud to say that I teach accounting at Tyler Junior College, which is usually followed by a deep sigh on their part and an explanation that accounting was their least favorite subject in college.  I am determined that it will not be yours!

Teaching Philosophy:
My philosophy of teaching is simple:  prepare my students for the classes that will be required of them in the future, as well as prepare them for the business environment they will face tomorrow.  My part in this preparation takes form in three ways:  show them, encourage them, and allow them to think.  Accounting is often a new concept to many students; it is my job to show them the accounting process through examples and illustrations, as well as show them how the process relates to the business itself by examining real-world examples.  I encourage my students to see the relationships that exist and to try to make sense of what is presented rather than memorizing.  My favorite question to ask in class is “why”.  Students are allowed to critically analyze situations, think through possible solutions, and offer their opinions on what should be done.  The answers may not always be what I like to hear, but it makes for interesting discussion!

Statement of usual method of evaluation of students (number of tests, essay paper, book reviews, etc.):

• 3 lecture exams, 1 or 2 lab exams
• 1 major project OR research assignment
• weekly homework/lab assignments
• comprehensive final exam (grade also used to substitute for lowest exam score)
• classroom participation and attendance

Professional Associations:

• Texas Community College Teachers’ Association