Teaching

    Critical, Caring, and Collaborative Learning

    My teaching is grounded in the belief that education should not only inform, but transform. I design learning spaces that are rigorous, accessible, and oriented toward justice — spaces where students are invited to question dominant narratives, draw from their lived experiences, and imagine new social possibilities.

    At UC San Diego, I’ve taught across disciplines and divisions, guiding students through complex ideas and real-world challenges at the intersection of health, law, science, and society.

    Courses Taught as Instructor of Record at UC San Diego

    Science, Technology, and Society (STS)
    Department of Sociology
    Investigated how science and technology shape — and are shaped by — power, politics, and social life, integrating insights from STS, critical theory, and public health.

    Medical Sociology
    Department of Sociology
    Examined the social construction of health, illness, and medicine with attention to structural inequities, disability, mental health, and care systems.

    Law & Society
    Department of Sociology
    Explored the cultural, political, and historical dimensions of legal institutions, with emphasis on race, criminalization, and rights-based frameworks.

    Workshops, Guest Lectures & Facilitated Learning

    In addition to university teaching, I offer:

    • Guest lectures and workshops on research justice, critical mental health, abolitionist methods, and writing process
    • Pedagogical consulting for instructors looking to integrate care-based or participatory approaches
    • Curriculum development for interdisciplinary programs or community education

    Let’s Collaborate

    If you’re interested in inviting me to speak, guest teach, or co-design a course or workshop, feel free to contact me at chad.valasek@gmail.com. I’m always excited to build new learning spaces rooted in curiosity, care, and critical inquiry.