I am a microbiologist and molecular biologist turned tenured biotech faculty turned bioinformatics scientist turned entrepeneur. My passion is developing instructional materials for 21st century biology.
Science Blogs has asked: What makes a good science teacher?
Many of the science teachers that I've met can't really be described by the adjective "good." The better fitting words are: great, marvelous, inspiring, and fantastic.
But, SBer's want to know, "what makes them so great?" Right?
I've compiled a list of characteristics that I've seen all great science teachers share. And, since this group rarely gets sufficiently rewarded beyond seeing themselves in the annual edition of the Bio-Rad Explorer catalog, I'm even going to name names and give examples.
What characteristics do great science teachers have in common?
They're self-confident and able to create an atmosphere that gives students the confidence to try new things.
Penny Pagels, Erin Dolan, Bill Woodruff
They are willing to try new things.
Linnea Fletcher, Sonia Wallman
They have vision.
Tamara Goetz, Elaine Johnson, Charlotte Mulvihill
They are willing to step back and let students do things.
George Cacchianes
They're not afraid of chaos.
Jim deKloe
They are altruistic and caring
Wendi Johnston, Tracy Stoops, Jeanne Chowning, Maureen Munn, Nancy Hutchinson
They're able to get students interested in new subjects
Jim Fielder
They're enthusiastic about new scientific discoveries
Mary Glodowski, Connie Kelly
They never hesitate to share what they've learned and help others learn, too
Ellen Daugherty, Lisa Seidman
They don't patronize their students. They believe that all students can learn and they find ways to get all students involved.
Judi Heitz
They have a great sense of humor.
Dewey Moody
Since I know I've missed some well-deserving teachers, maybe I can get my readers to help out here. If you've had a great science teacher, some time in your life, hey, be brave, go ahead and say something nice about your favorite science teacher(s) in my comment section.
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