Philosophy
As a veteran science educator, my career has focused on encouraging all students to grapple with challenging scientific concepts, engage with a variety of materials, and interact with peers in order to foster understanding of the natural world through experience and discourse. Whether teaching science methods courses or delivering professional development programs for in-service teachers, I strive to provide my students with the tools and strategies necessary to feel confident and be competent in teaching science. Through consideration of the nature of science as a practice which requires certain habits of mind, my goal is to promote in my students those habits which will help them to foster and model a dynamic, working scientific community in their classrooms. My courses combine pedagogical strategies, science content and process skills, as well the philosophical and historical underpinnings of Constructivist science teaching and learning through a series of cross-curricular, inquiry-based activities. Within this overarching framework, I continuously honor what is known about adult learners in order to ensure that the course is meaningful and that my teaching is appropriate and inspiring.
For an extended statement, please feel free to contact me.
For an extended statement, please feel free to contact me.