My Philosophy of Teaching Science

This semester, I got the opportunity to dive into the concept of discovery-based learning. I think this type of learning is so important in a science class for so many reasons. While it is true that not everyone learn
s the same way, I think it is important for science to be centered around student discoveries because it is the easiest way to get them excited about their own education!

In my opinion, science is a subject that cannot be effectively learned by memorizing facts and spitting them back out on a test.  Science is best learned through doing rather than watching.  As I approach the end of this semester, it has become clear to me that in my future classroom science class will be a place to experiment, explore, and fully learn about the world around us. Hands-on experiments are the most important aspect of a science class. Creating and executing science experiments is not only fun, but it is extremely helpful in showing students how and why things work. Learning through discovery-based experiments allows students to learn through doing and being active in the classroom, as opposed to sitting and listening to a lecture. As a future science teacher, I want my students to get excited about science, not resent it like I did.  

That being said, I understand some students learn in different ways. While some might prefer hands-on classes, some might prefer lectures or watching videos. I recognize this, which I think is important for childhood educators to acknowledge. My future classroom will mostly likely have a mixture of hands-on activities, lectures, videos, group work, and individual work. Just like balancing a healthy diet, I think every method in moderation will make for a healthy, effective learning environment.