It’s been 4 months since my last blog update. The reason of such a gap in time is… because I truly wanted to immerse myself in the experience of being a Head of Department. However, such title or job position does not fully convey a personal objective. I personally did not accept to coordinate the Academy of Sciences because of money or prestige. I accepted the challenge because I truly believe that one can transcend through education. I accepted the challenge because I firmly believe that everyone, regardless of age, gender, and social background is good at Math and Science.
Let me elaborate on that point. Back when I was in middle school I had a teacher who revolutionized my previous conceptions of how Algebra is taught. In a time where most of my classmates seemed to despise Mathematics, along came a teacher who had a “special gift” that no other teacher had. He made Math elegant and simple to follow. While he was explaining abstract concepts, he moved gracefully in front of the class, and used magnificently structured procedures to illustrate new analytical notions. That is when I realized that not only Mathematics but Science in general could be shared, and everyone would be delighted in the learning process.
As the years rolled by, I had the opportunity to become a Science and Math teacher. In the 4 years I have taught Science and Math I have NEVER found ANYONE who is terrible at them. Even some of the students who had a very negative predisposition to subjects such as Algebra, Calculus, Chemistry and Physics eventually started to demonstrate a positive bond with these disciplines. How is that possible? How could a teacher inspire a student to get rid of stereotypes regarding Math and Science? How could a teacher demonstrate that Science and Math have an actual application in real life? The key term is motivation. Since motivation is such a contagious feeling, not only it affects the mental structure of a student, but it percolates all the way into his or her emotions. A student must establish an emotional connection with Math and Science. In other words, Math and Science have to make not only logical, but emotional “sense”.
Coordinating the Academy of Sciences has led me through a path of trial and error, long working nights, sleep deprivations, mood swings, and fear. However, the premise of changing how Mathematics and Science are perceived is what drives me to collaborate with the teachers who support the Academy and the students with whom we share our classes as teachers. This is my code of beliefs. This is why I do this.
I am tired of listening to the mantra “I hate Math. I hate Sciences. They are difficult. They are boring. There are no good Math and Science Teachers. My parents tell me that I’m not good at Algebra. My parents were never good at Math and Science.”
So, if you are a teacher or student who is reading this statement, I encourage you to believe that Science and Mathematics can be fun, interesting, and transcendental. Science and Mathematics can be learned and enjoyed by everyone. Let’s demonstrate that to the world.
