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Newsletter Volume 2 |
Fall 1997 |
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Newsletter Volume 2 |
Fall 1997 |
Arizona State University's office of faculty development has introduced a web site and an award to recognize outstanding teachers at ASU. We are proud to announce that Stephen Reynolds, ACEPT Co-PI and Professor of Geology, was the first ASU faculty member to be selected for this honor. The recipients of this award are selected from more than 3,000 faculty at ASU, and must demonstrate effective learning in the classroom. Steve earned his award for his ACEPT-reformed introductory geology course. He has pioneered many innovative and even unorthodox changes in this large class. In fact, Steve's geology course is the model of an inquiry-oriented, student-centered class for enrollments of 200 students.
Stephen Reynolds, ASU geologist and Outstanding Teacher Award recipient
Steve describes his highly effective approach in this way: "In my classes, I follow a less-is-more approach, where I cover fewer key concepts in greater detail, in order to more effectively teach thinking processes and to convey how science actually works. A less-is-more approach also lets me use the "lecture part" of class time for elaborating only the most important concepts, freeing up class time for observation and critical-thinking exercises, demonstrations, slide and video shows, discussions about current geologic events, exploring both sides of controversial environmental issues, and other forms of in-class active learning. Most students look forward to coming to class because it is fun, stimulating, and engaging. My classes encourage natural curiosity, questioning, and free exploration of alternative ideas."
"In my courses, I emphasize developing observational, critical-thinking, and critical-inquiry skills, and de-emphasize memorization and rote learning. I have successfully implemented a number of methods for actively engaging the students and getting them to observe, think, and interact with their peers, in spite of the large class size [typically 250 students] and a large classroom designed for a lecture-style format." Steve's success in the classroom is evident by the comments from students in his Introductory Geology (GLG 101) course:
Dr. Reynolds has been one of my favorite professors at ASU. He is very easy to understand and has made science enjoyable. Before taking this class I had no interest in science at all; now I do. I am glad that I chose GLG as one of my required science credits. Good demonstrations! (also slides).
Bravo on use of the Internet! The web site is well organized easy to use and has relevant information. The interaction with the class was great. He moved around the class to keep everyone involved. The Snackwells, money flow, and monster castle examples were great helps in remembering processes.
Excellent teacher. Made a class I thought was going to be monotonous, exciting. Steve showed a great knowledge about geology and helped us learn his knowledge and apply it.
He made it easy for the class to comprehend. He was more concerned that we understood how geology was related than the terminology. I really enjoyed the class. I learned a lot about geology because he made it easy to understand.
Reynolds uses practical application through exercises on Internet, homework and papers - This made geology more relevant to me. Better than memorizing for tests. I also like the fact that tests were not what the grade depended on.
For more information on Steve, his views on teaching, and his course take a look at his impressive web site: http://www-glg.la.asu.edu/~sreynolds/home.htm
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