image from "Learning Science and Math Using Health & Beauty", Alverno Magazine, Spring 2012
Teaching
I have been teaching chemistry and biochemistry for almost two decades and I see myself as a guide and a resource for students on their journey into unlimited possibilities and complexities of science. Knowledge of chemistry allows one to uncover secrets of life, existence, and magic.
When I first joined academia, the lack of evidence-based pedagogy in a traditional classroom greatly surprised me. Although in the last 100 years education shifted from educating self-selected few to educating masses, we continue to apply the same techniques – long lectures, little visualization, text-heavy content, supplemented by labs/activities that feel disconnected. Even after educational psychologists and neuroscientists made progress in understanding how people learn, memorize, recall and retain information, we still see very little of it in the classroom.
To change the dynamic of how students learn in my classes, I've :
made a point of not lecturing for more than 15 minutes.
included laboratory and hands-on activities that supplement lectures right into the classroom.
written labs that inspire curiosity and creativity.
used assessments not just as a validating tool but as a learning instrument as well.
scaffolded assessments to allow for the development of self-efficacy.
re-thought my syllabus to make it more inclusive.
included online simulations, demonstrations, videos, hands-on activities, study guides, etc. in all of my courses to help students with comprehension of the material.
shifted the focus from “showing to students” to “helping students” to “watching students”.
“In my work with Dina, I found her to be extremely proactive, thoughtful, inventive, and eager to widen her repertoire of teaching techniques. She was always focused on the students and their achievement. She was also an efficient worker, moving ahead briskly with whatever she decided to do. Working with her was a pleasant and productive experience.” - Patricia S. Bowne, Ph.D., Professor of Biology, Alverno College.
“Dina approaches teaching as a good educator/scientist. When students have difficulty with concepts and skills, her approach is not to blame the students, but to apply good pedagogy and problem solving to help them learn. She holds students to high standards, and is constantly thinking about strategies to help them meet these standards.” - Rebecca S. Burton, Ph.D., Professor of Biology, Alverno College.
Video Lecture
I believe I have an ability to explain things in a way students understand and break down complicated scientific concepts into real-life examples. It is a difficult but satisfying challenge to spark an interest in science in students, and to awaken their scientific reasoning in everyday decision-making.
Syllabus Chemistry 186 (Spring 2023)Inclusive syllabus
In my Faculty Support role I've developed a college-wide syllabus templates utilizing principles of inclusivity in the classroom. Here is an example of my Intro to Biochemistry course Syllabus.
Course Design
The landscape of higher education is rapidly transforming. In order to stay relevant, competitive, and meet 21st Century student expectations I took a number of classes on the course design and, here is the final product for one of my courses in Fall 2021.
Communication
I am a firm believer that every student can succeed and stretch his/her potential if given safe environment and nurturing mentorship of teachers who care. That is why I am committed to open and frequent communication with my students.
Students Testimonials:
"Thank you for a great semester! You’re honestly one of the best professors I’ve had; you really enjoy what you teach and keep things challenging. You really care about your students and not many professors value that. Thank you!" - Hailey R.
"I appreciate ALL the things you did to make the class a success. You are an Exceptional Teacher. I was blessed to have you. I must admit I did learn a lot about the Chemistry of Life." - Vera N.
"Just wanted to take a few minutes to really express my gratitude towards you and all you did for me this semester. Not only did you support and motivate me in this very difficult class, but you also helped me secure a scholarship and a job! I am incredibly grateful for your generosity and your dedication to your students. I can honestly say that you are one of the best professors I’ve had, not only at MATC but also at ***. You aren’t there just for a paycheck and that was very evident from day 1. Please keep up the amazing work and I wish you the best. " - Deven B.
"I had a lot of fun this semester and you’re a great teacher!" - Brie C.
"I really enjoyed your class and learned a lot. I can honestly say your the best teacher I've had so far, ever. " - Michael O.
"Thank you for being a great teacher! I really enjoyed your class this semester." - Brittnnii B.
"Thank you for teaching this class, Dina. I would not have been able to pursue my Master's degree without it. I learned a lot and look at the world differently with the knowledge you taught me regarding biochemistry. While I do not want to be a biochemist, I do find biochemistry fascinating and am amazed at all the things our bodies accomplish every second to keep us alive. It really is fascinating. Now I understand the science I read better as well. It makes more sense. " - Traci M.
"I enjoyed the format of the class, you were very professional and helpful throughout. I'm sure I was not your best student but I did take a lot from this class and feel lucky we had you as our instructor. " - Francisco G.
""I never thought I would say that I enjoy biochemistry, but after this class I really do! I thought the lesson/notes packet was very helpful. I also am a big fan of the practice exams, they really provide a good reference point for what to study. Labs were genuinely interesting (especially the strawberry DNA one!). I think it's obvious that you care about your students and that is very much appreciated. Thank you!" - Anonymous from the course evaluation
