Teacher Comments From Previous Courses

My knowledge and confidence about my knowledge skyrocketed during the content topics. I feel humbled while I am here, but in the end it has made me a better student and teacher. It's by far the largest output of effort
I have put into a professional development experience. "Doing" science in a student role allows me to see complications first hand that students may have.   
-John Mueller, Oshkosh West High School

My level of understanding of science content was drastically improved!  I have been morphed into a Modeling Method enthusiast because I lived it, and there's no going back because there's no other way to teach, because there's no better way to learn.  It's that simple. I loved the struggle I faced as I was asked questions about science I didn't take the time to truly wonder about. The Modeling philosophy of "concept first" makes so much sense!  The power of it all still lingers!
-Ruth Berken, Preble High School

It was a wonderful mix of academic subject and technology and pedagogy all in one.  Very practical.  Much better than taking a class on pedagogy without incorporating actual knowledge into it!  This (course) was so much more valuable to teaching than a typical education class.  It has made me realize how much I have "watered down " my content and lowered my expectations for students, just so I didn't have to fight the system anymore.  This will definitely impact my teaching in a positive way.   It will be tough to change, but I learned so much about how students think and learn.
-Jennifer Stever, East Troy High School

The materials from this class can be used directly in the classroom.  I intend to try to incorporate as much of the Modeling Method as possible in my teaching next year and will continue to add things in the years to come.
-Pauline King, Melrose-Mindoro High School

This course had a major impact on the way I will teach physical science concepts. My students will present their lab results using the white board technique and will be challenged to describe their preexisting models when a new topic is introduced.
-Gereon Welhouse, St. Lawrence Seminary High School

This is hands done the best.  It will actually improve my class not just bog me down with paperwork. This helps me become even more excited to share science with my students.  The modeling approach will help me, help students to dig into Physics. 
-Brian Allen, Kimberly High School

We learned the Modeling Method by doing it, not by reading survey results. I learned a great way to make my students the owners of their learning…and how I want my future as a science teacher to start heading. I used many of the technologies before, but I started to see how I can fit them to my own needs, and not just use the cookie cutter stuff they share with us when we get a book.
-Terry Schwaller, Shiocton High School
 
By far, this has been the best professional development course I have experienced.   I have taken content courses that are comparable, but not a methods of teaching course.  This has provided a wonderful opportunity to obtain much needed technology equipment in my classroom.  I am also able to walk away with more confidence to use the equipment. Thanks for the opportunity for me to improve my teaching.  I feel very fortunate to have had this experience. 
-Deb Freitag, Clear Lake High School