Ernest Johnson’s favorite thing about teaching is the opportunity to assist students in their dreams and goals. Working as a teacher for the Computer Applications and Office Systems (CAOS) Department places Mr. Johnson in direct connection with his students, and that is one of the reasons that he loves his job. He loves to get his students excited about what they’re learning.
He believes that students in general need a coach, someone to guide and encourage them. His good sense of humor, smiles, and frequent gentle laughter help his students relax and have fun in class. He likes to create projects that reflect how students will use their skills in the real world, making what they learn much more practical.
Despite his fun, encouraging attitude, he expects students to take classes seriously. He dislikes it when students use the computers for emails or youtube during class, and wants them to pay attention during his lectures, which he tries to keep short, “Because I know everyone gets bored,” he says.
Johnson started his career life out as an engineer after studying at Harvard, Massachusetts Institution of Technology, and the University of Dayton. He received degrees in Electical Engineering and Business Administration. It was through his own children’s curiosities and learning experiences that Johnson realized he had a love and knack for teaching.
Outside of De Anza, Johnson loves cooking! He plans to go to culinary school after retirement, just for the fun of it. He is also an avid traveler, and has been to the British Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, and Panama, among other places. He loves the fact that the school schedule allows for plenty of vacations where he can pursue such passions. He is very active both at De Anza and in the community. Despite his busy schedule, lasting from seven in the morning to around eight at night, Johnson finds time to get involved the disability support club on campus, attend ballets and concerts, and work in a soup kitchen with his church. Johnson also has a fondness for nature, and expresses it through hiking, taking pictures, and exploring the land around Pescadero.
Johnson believes that De Anza students are usually very bright and self-motivated, which he loves teaching here. He likes the college setting because the students are here because they want to learn. They are not required to be here.
As for advice for students, “Have fun,” he counsels with an encouraging smile. “Enjoy the moment; live like there’s no tomorrow.”