I believe the most important thing I can do to help my students learn is to come to every class with enough creative preparation and organization so that I may present an engaging, coherent and intuitive lecture.
During my academic career, I’ve had both amazing teachers who have inspired my interest in and respect for their subject and other teachers who have made learning an unbearable chore. Although a cheerful and energetic lecturer is always appreciated, the difference between these two types of teacher may have nothing to do with the friendliness or disposition of the person. I believe what makes a great teacher is the ability to present information in an organized and intuitive sequence, and the art of relating one’s excitement about this information in a way that students can related it to their own experiences.
In chemistry, teachers face the particular challenge of presenting subject material that is often far removed from the tangible experiences of the students. In my career as a teacher I hope to capture my students’ interests by not only sharing my knowledge, but showing them why it is interesting and relevant. For example, the topic of thermodynamics can perhaps seem abstract. However if a student can apply thermodynamics to their experi- ences, for example understanding why diamonds are said to be “forever”, then the topic becomes tangible, and naturally more interesting. One of my goals as a teacher is to relate my excitement about science to my stu- dents by showing them how it is important to their every day life.
The important step toward bridging experience and abstract scientific principles can also be accomplished through classroom demonstrations and hands-on laboratory sessions. These components are fundamental to learning in science and I believe should be incorporated as much as possible. Learning is accomplished much better through active doing and seeing, than by passively sitting through a lecture. I have learned through my experience with students that showing them chemistry in action is much more valuable and more exciting than telling them about it.
I believe that since science is logical and systematic, when it is presented in an organized fashion that is con- ducive to learning, students are much more capable of grasping otherwise difficult material. It is my goal as a teacher to be organized and thorough in my lectures so that students have the best chance of grasping the ma- terial. I believe the most important thing I can do to help my students learn is to come to every class with enough creative preparation and organization so that I may present an engaging, coherent and intuitive lecture. This foundation will allow me to translate my excitement and interest in the subjects that I teach in order to promote student learning and interest in the sciences.
Student Documentation
CHEM 49S Evaluations, Spring '06
Past students