"Scientists are not afraid of being wrong" Dr. Joseph Biganne
My Teaching Philosophy
I aspire to foster a classroom environment that encourages each student to grow as a whole person and challenges them to deeply wonder at the natural world around them through active inquiry, peer collaboration, proficiency in scientific literacy and research, critical thinking and project based learning. In integrating the learning theories of humanism, social constructivism, and 21st Century skills, I aim to form students as active questioners and critical thinkers in a rapidly changing world. Although not every student I have will continue to a scientific career, I believe that in teaching students how to think like scientists, they will learn how to boldly ask questions without the fear of being wrong, the importance of working collaboratively and integrating different disciplines and ideas, and ultimately find the joy of simply learning.
"All knowledge is connected to all other knowledge. The fun is in making the connections." -Arthur Aufderheide
Classroom Management Plan
To maintain a well functioning classroom environment I will use a proactive method of setting high expectations from the very first day of school for my students. Drawing from humanism and elements of choice theory, I will highly emphasize the dignity of each student and encourage intrinsic motivation through a student centered learning environment. As a class we will create a set of classroom rules based on the values of respect, responsibility, and curiosity. Poor behavior will be addressed privately on an individual basis to form students in taking responsibility for their actions and to mature as young adults who can admit and repair their mistakes.