MAXWELL IJAMS, M.A., M.ED.
Email: maxwell.mc.ijams@gmail.com COPIED!
I am a career educator returning to Utah after an impactful eight-year tenure in South Korea, where I specialized in English and AP Psychology instruction. My approach to teaching is defined by a rare intersection of linguistic theory and practical pedagogical leadership, supported by two distinct Master’s degrees.
With an M.A. in Applied Linguistics and an M.Ed. in General Education, I view the classroom as a site for both academic excellence and cognitive development. My work focuses on designing curricula that are not only aligned with standards but are also highly engaging for diverse learner populations. I pride myself on integrating multi-modal elements—ranging from journalistic media, photography projects, and musical activities—to lower the affective filter and drive measurable student outcomes.
My background in Psychology fundamentally informs my classroom management, allowing me to foster a student-centered environment rooted in empathy and social-emotional growth. I am currently seeking a teaching or ELL program design position for the 2026-2027+ school year where I can contribute my international experience and research-backed instructional strategies to a forward-thinking faculty.
SOUTHERN UTAH UNIVERSITY (JUNE 2024 – DEC 2025)
MASTER OF EDUCATION (M.ED.) | GPA: 3.82
Completed advanced graduate coursework focused on pedagogical innovation and instructional leadership. This program emphasized evidence-based teaching strategies, curriculum design for diverse learner populations (PreK-12), and the integration of educational technology. Conducted comprehensive practitioner research to refine classroom outcomes and specialized in foundational educational theory to support student achievement in high-stakes academic environments.
UMASS BOSTON (SEPT 2022 – DEC 2023)
MASTER OF ARTS IN APPLIED LINGUISTICS | GPA: 3.78
Developed specialized expertise in second language acquisition, sociolinguistics, and discourse analysis. This program provided a rigorous framework for designing and implementing complex curricula tailored to diverse linguistic backgrounds. Skilled in analyzing language patterns and implementing research-backed instructional strategies to facilitate cognitive development and promote high levels of linguistic competence in multicultural settings.
PORTLAND STATE UNIVERSITY (JUNE 2012 – DEC 2016)
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN PSYCHOLOGY | GPA: 3.79
Focused on developmental psychology, specifically child and adolescent brain development. Conducted undergraduate research culminating in a thesis regarding public health and community mental health trends. This foundational study in human behavior informs my current classroom management and student-centered instructional approach.
HILLSIDE COLLEGIATE, INCHEON (AUG 2025 – PRESENT)
AP PSYCHOLOGY & ENGLISH TEACHER
I design curriculum for Literature, AP Psychology, and Writing, ensuring tight alignment with AP and course standards through practical, real-world application. As the newspaper advisor, I facilitate media projects and journalistic activities that enhance communication skills and digital literacy. For my M.Ed. thesis, I implemented and studied a journaling curriculum to improve student reflection and academic outcomes.
PEA-I, SEOUL (MAY 2022 – SEPT 2023)
ENGLISH TEACHER
Fostered a nurturing and engaging environment to enhance language proficiency and communication skills. Conducted a capstone project for my M.A. in Applied Linguistics, integrating photography and visual arts to boost student motivation and linguistic engagement. Utilized creative teaching methods and interactive activities to encourage student enthusiasm for learning.
RISE, BUNDANG (JULY 2020 – MARCH 2021)
ENGLISH TEACHER
Served as an EFL teacher in a comprehensive after-school program. Focused on building fundamental language skills through immersive instruction and activity-based learning. Developed lesson plans aimed at improving student reading comprehension, speaking fluency, and core grammar skills.
ALTIORA, SUJI-GU (FEB 2019 – MARCH 2020)
KINDERGARTEN ENGLISH TEACHER
Taught a full-immersion English Kindergarten curriculum. Integrated musical instruction by utilizing the guitar to enhance student engagement and facilitate phonetic learning through song. Focused on early childhood development and foundational literacy.
READING TOWN, GURI-SI (OCT 2017 – OCT 2018)
ENGLISH TEACHER
Instructional lead for a language program centered on literacy and reading comprehension. Managed classroom dynamics and implemented standardized curricula to help students develop confidence in their English speaking and writing abilities.
CORE SKILLS & EXPERTISE
Credentials & Licensing
- Associates Educator License (Utah)
- English as a Second Language (ESL) Endorsement
- Instructional Leadership & Curriculum Architecture
- 160 Hr. TEFL Certification
- 8+ Years International Teaching Experience
Instructional Specialization
- Linguistic Support: Expert in ESL/ELL program design and lowering the affective filter.
- Advanced Academics: Proven success in AP Psychology and English Literature.
- Creative Integration: Using music, photography, and journalism to drive academic outcomes.
AWARDS & CREATIVE WORK
Professional Recognition
- Voted “Kindest Teacher” (February 2026)
- Voted “Teacher of Most Gratitude” (November 2025)
- Debate Adjudicator: World Scholar’s Cup Seoul (2026)
Creative Projects
- Published Author: Two published photography books exploring discarded chairs around the world.
- Recording Artist: Five published records; I integrate this musical background into language instruction.
Community Involvement
- Volunteer Photography Instructor (Tokyo, 2023-24)
- Lines for Life Crisis Operator (Portland, 2015-16)
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Thesis Research
My second master’s research explored the intersection of self-expression and language-learning motivation. While expected motivational links were not found, my data revealed a significant divergence: students used art projects to express negative sentiments and frustrations about language learning that they kept hidden in their written work.
This suggests that artistic expression creates a vital “safe space” for students to process the emotional challenges of acquisition. You can read the full study here: Thesis.PDF
Teacher Resource Portal
I developed professional development materials focused on linguistic approaches to education. View the training modules here: Teacher Resources