Associate Professor, Teaching Stream
School of Computer Science
Director of Software Engineering
University of Waterloo
Office: DC3113 / DC2523 (SE Office)
Email: vsakhnini AT uwaterloo DOT ca
Email: se-director AT uwaterloo DOT ca
I bring a great deal of energy and enthusiasm into the classroom because if I can't be excited about the subject I teach, how can I expect my students to be? Passion is contagious, and I believe that genuine curiosity and engagement from the instructor can ignite a similar spark in students. At the heart of my teaching philosophy lies a commitment to nurturing independent, thoughtful learners. My goal is not simply to deliver content but to create an environment where students feel encouraged to question, explore, and challenge ideas. I strive to foster critical thinking, inspire intellectual curiosity, and pass on the sense of wonder that my own mentors instilled in me. I believe that when students are invited to ask meaningful questions, learning becomes a natural and rewarding process. Teaching, to me, is both a privilege and a profound responsibility. It provides a chance to shape minds, contribute to the growth of others, and be part of a shared journey of discovery. I find deep satisfaction in watching students develop confidence in their ideas and abilities. The classroom is not a one-way street; it's a dynamic space where I, too, continue to learn. Each interaction challenges me to refine my communication, see familiar material through new eyes, and grow alongside my students. Effective teaching, I believe, is a careful balance of empathy, encouragement, high expectations, and space for experimentation. My most valuable tools are my love for the subject, my willingness to invest time and energy in my students, and my openness to understanding their perspectives. I aim to model not only the role of a teacher but also that of a lifelong learner and an engaged thinker.