As a student, I have experienced many different methods of teaching, both in and outside of educational institutions. One of the ways in which I, and many others, learn the best is through participating in hands-on and interactive activities. Alongside that idea, I have had the incredible opportunity to be a part of UTeach Maker, which has only reinforced my strong belief of incorporating the art of making in the classroom. Ideally, my classroom would incorporate the idea of making and creation alongside project-based instruction to provide students an enriched learning environment where they can expand not only their knowledge in the subject matter, but also learn other important skills along the way. 

 

At a young age, I was mesmerized by the world around me. I wanted to know everything there was to learn; there was always another "Why?" that I could ask so I always did. I loved school because I constantly learned new things and as a result, I adored my teachers and wanted to become just like them.

 

A vivid memory I have of middle school is questioning my 8th grade science teacher's answer to a question she asked the class. I did not outright state that I believed she was wrong but internally, that is exactly what I thought. She caught onto my confusion and asked me to explain what I was thinking but I dismissed my concern and simply said never mind. Once the bell rang, she kept me after class and explained to me that I needed to speak up, even if I wasn't completely sure if I was right, because I was important and so were my thoughts. This small interaction has changed the way I interact with others around me. I no longer feel it is disrespectful to politely disagree and question others around me, something that I believe is a very important skill for students to have. As an educator, I refuse to rule with an iron fist because as a human, I am prone to make mistakes and I want my students to feel confident enough in themselves to speak up and correct me if needed. 

 

Another vital skill I believe students should learn in a classroom is how to problem solve on their own and in collaboration with others. In STEM classrooms, this can come in the form of project-based instruction and making. By doing this, while learning how to problem solve, the students will also develop skills they will take and use outside the classroom such as how to critically think, how to speak more clearly and how to work with others. By allowing students to discuss and figure out problems themselves instead of sharing the answer right away, students are given the opportunity to connect knowledge they have previously acquired and apply it to the current situation. Students will make mistakes along the way when problem solving but I believe this is the best way students can learn. By working through their mistakes and discovering why something works the way it does, they have a better understanding and retention of the matter at hand. Additionally, students who work together to solve complex problems can help each other along the way and pull each other to work harder and solve problems they might not have done on their own. 

 

In conclusion, my primary goal as an educator is to provide my students with the confidence and skills necessary for them to feel like they belong and can succeed in STEM.