![Photo of Doreen Elliott](/sites/default/files/2009_0062_Elliott%2C%20Doreen.jpg)
Doreen Elliott, Ph.D.
Professor of Social Work & Distinguished Teaching Professor
UT Arlington
"My favorite definition of education is that given by John Dewey: 'education is that reconstruction or reorganization of experience which adds to the meaning of experience and which increases ability to re-direct the course of subsequent experience.' This definition sees education as an interactive process. I believe the challenge to us as educators is to make education a relevant transforming and empowering experience which recognizes the strengths of the individual student and the context in which they learn. I value the diverse experiences which our students bring to the classroom from varied cultures, career experiences and achievements in social work and in other careers, and in family responsibilities."