Teaching Biology

Girija Gopalakrishnan | Teacher | Kasiga International School

What is Teaching Biology?

A Career in Teaching Biology is very intriguing. Understanding Why one wants to choose a Career in Teaching Biology is phenomenally more important than figuring out How to get into Teaching Biology. While anyone can have an opinion on what Teaching Biology entails; only a real professional can really explain it.

Teacher Girija Gopalakrishnan has worked in Teaching Biology for 38 years. Teacher Girija Gopalakrishnan defines Teaching Biology as:

Teaching Biology involves introducing students to all manner of significant processes, from the human body to the natural world. Biology is one of the central branches of scientific knowledge, and is relevant to topics including medicine, genetics, zoology, ecology, and public policy.

How Teacher Girija Gopalakrishnan got into Teaching Biology?

After doing B Sc in Life Sciences & Chemistry from MKP College, I did M Sc in Botany from DAV College. I have also done B Ed and Ph D in Microbial Ecology from North Eastern Hill University, Shillong. I write travelogues, blogs and books. I teach Biology, English and Environment Awareness.

Teacher Girija Gopalakrishnan's Talk on Teaching Biology

The Journey of a Biology Teacher: Insights from Experience Teaching biology is not just a profession; it is a passion that intertwines the joy of exploration and education. Girija Gopalakrishnan, an experienced biology teacher, has dedicated her life to imparting knowledge about the intricate web of life that surrounds us. From her early years in Missouri to her extensive teaching commitments across various states in India, Girija's path illustrates both the profound impact and the complexities of being an educator in the life sciences field. What Is Teaching Biology? The Essence of Biology Education Teaching biology involves more than delivering lectures on flora and fauna; it is about instilling a comprehensive understanding of life and its processes. As Girija describes, the teaching experience is layered and multifaceted, requiring educators to connect with students effectively while adhering to a structured curriculum. The vastness of biological sciences, with its overlap into chemistry and physics, presents a dynamic challenge for teachers who must simplify complex ideas. Through thoughtful communication, teachers can ignite curiosity in students, transforming them into lifelong learners. Education Life Sciences A foundational aspect of becoming a biology teacher is a strong educational background in life sciences. This includes knowledge encompassing genetics, ecology, and human physiology. Girija emphasizes that one must not only attain a bachelor's and master’s degree in biological sciences but also continue learning to keep pace with advancements in the field. The importance of this commitment to education cannot be understated, as ongoing learning allows teachers to provide relevant and updated information that students can trust. Anatomy & Physiology Understanding anatomy and physiology is crucial for biology educators, as it forms the basis of many biological concepts. Girija highlights that teaching students about the human body and plant structures requires a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter. This expertise enhances the teacher's ability to explain complex biological processes, such as photosynthesis and cell division, in relatable terms, linking theory with real-world applications. Science The study of biology is deeply ensconced within the scientific disciplines, which is vital for effective teaching. Girija points out that as life sciences are rooted in scientific inquiry, teachers must nurture a scientific mindset within their students. This approach not only facilitates the understanding of biological concepts but also instills critical thinking abilities that are essential for students’ future endeavors in science-related fields. Skills Communication Effective communication is paramount for biology teachers. As noted by Girija, the ability to convey intricate concepts in an accessible manner is key to fostering student understanding. This includes verbal communication, where teachers must articulate ideas clearly, as well as the visual elements of teaching, such as using sketches and diagrams. For example, a teacher’s ability to paint a vivid picture of cellular processes can make the subject come alive for students, enhancing their learning experience. Sketching Skills Biology is inherently visual, and Girija emphasizes the necessity of sketching skills for biology teachers. Being able to draw diagrams that illustrate biological concepts not only aids in explanation but also engages students in a creative manner. This skill, however, can pose a challenge, as not all students feel confident in their artistic abilities. Girija teaches her students that sketching is more about observation and representation than artistic talent, which can alleviate their concerns and encourage them to practice. Linguistic Ability A solid grasp of language is essential for biology teachers, as it equips them to interpret scientific literature and distill this information for students. Girija explains that the dynamic and evolving nature of biology means that teachers must continually update their understanding of terminology and concepts. A teacher’s ability to translate complex ideas into simpler language is vital for ensuring that all students, regardless of their prior knowledge, can grasp the subject matter. Observation Skills Observation is at the heart of scientific inquiry and is essential for biology teachers. Girija notes that a keen sense of observation helps teachers tailor their lessons to seasonal phenomena, such as the study of migratory birds or plant cycles. This approach not only contextualizes learning for students but also fosters a connection with the natural world, making lessons more engaging and relevant. Scientific Method Understanding and applying the scientific method is another critical skill for biology teachers. Girija values this ability, as it equips both teachers and students to formulate hypotheses, conduct experiments, and analyze results accurately. For instance, demonstrating photosynthesis through a simple experiment allows students to observe firsthand the principles they are learning, leading to a deeper understanding of the subject. Positives Understanding Web of Life Teaching biology opens doors for students to understand the interconnected web of life on Earth. Girija states that biology education fosters an appreciation for ecological balance and the relationships between different organisms. This perspective encourages students to think critically about environmental issues, promoting a sense of responsibility toward sustaining the planet. Interesting Subject Biology is often regarded as one of the most intriguing subjects due to its exploration of life processes. Students tend to find the subject matter captivating, especially when teachers bring real-world connections into the classroom. Girija, who treasures engaging students through outdoor observations and experiments, recognizes that these immersive experiences excite students about learning. Multiple Career Options One of the greatest advantages of studying biology is the multitude of career paths it can lead to. According to Girija, fields like environmental science, wildlife photography, and space biology expand the horizon for students beyond traditional medical careers. This expansive view of biology empowers students to pursue their passions and talents, reinforcing the idea that the subject has much broader implications. Environmental Awareness Biology teachers play a vital role in cultivating environmental awareness among students. Girija claims that by teaching the fundamentals of life and ecology, teachers can transform students into eco-warriors. This teaching can spark proactive attitudes toward ecological conservation, encouraging students to take action in their communities to protect the environment. Awareness about Health A critical component of biology education is health literacy. Girija discusses how teaching about the human body and nutrition equips students with the knowledge to make informed health choices. This awareness extends to understanding the importance of a balanced diet, exercise, and hygiene, which are vital skills for leading a healthy life. Challenges Teaching Tough Terms One significant challenge biology teachers face is the memorization of complex terminologies. As Girija articulates, students are often overwhelmed by long scientific names and terms, which can hinder their learning process. To mitigate this, teachers need to employ strategies that help students memorize effectively, such as integrating storytelling or mnemonics into the learning experience. Making Students Draw While sketching is an invaluable skill in biology, many students struggle with it. Girija notes that encouraging students to draw what they observe can be met with resistance, as not everyone feels confident in their artistic abilities. Teachers must find ways to motivate students, reassuring them that the focus is on representation rather than artistic perfection, thus fostering their engagement. Visual Subject Biology's visual nature can simultaneously be a strength and a challenge. As Girija points out, conveying concepts that often operate beyond basic three-dimensional understanding can be daunting. Teachers must develop innovative ways to illustrate complex ideas, using models, simulations, and creative presentations to ensure students grasp the material fully. Teaching Different Students Every classroom is made up of diverse learners, each with unique strengths and challenges. Girija highlights the difficulty in catering to varying student abilities, particularly when it comes to active versus passive learning styles. Effective biology teaching involves recognizing these differences and adapting instruction to meet all students' needs, which can be a balancing act for educators. Myth among Students A pervasive myth that biology equates to a career solely in medicine poses a significant challenge for biology teachers. Girija emphasizes the importance of dismantling this misconception, demonstrating to students that their biology education can lead to various exciting career paths outside of medicine. This involves consistent advocacy and education about the diverse array of professions available in biology. A Day Of Teaching Biology A day in the life of a biology teacher is often filled with preparation and inspiration. According to Girija, the day begins with lesson planning, where she organizes materials and sets up experiments to engage her students. Her routine might include gathering specimens for in-class observation or meticulously preparing visual aids to encourage active learning. The morning bustle sees her arriving early to ensure the classroom is ready, including sketches and diagrams on the board to greet her students. Skills in time management and creativity are essential, allowing her to maximize the limited time available for each class while ensuring that the curriculum is delivered effectively. She navigates through teaching multiple class levels, adjusting her approach based on the varying degrees of complexity required for each group. This adaptive teaching style enhances the learning experience for all students. In reflecting on her career, Girija acknowledges that teaching biology is a rewarding journey filled with challenges and triumphs. The excitement of unlocking the mysteries of life for her students contributes to a sense of purpose that is both fulfilling and impactful. As she continues to teach and guide future generations of biologists, Girija inspires a passion for learning that will resonate far beyond the classroom. In conclusion, teaching biology is a dynamic and rewarding career choice that goes hand in hand with continuous learning and engagement. It reflects the complexities of life and provides students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the world around them. The impact of dedicated educators like Girija Gopalakrishnan is profound, helping shape the ecological consciousness and scientific understanding of future leaders.

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How to get into

Teaching Biology?

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Links for this Talk

Teacher Girija Gopalakrishnan's LifePage:

[LifePage]
https://www.lifepage.in/page/girijagopalakrishnan

LifePage Career Talk on Teaching Biology

[Career]
https://www.lifepage.in/careers/teaching-biology-1

[Full Talk]
https://lifepage.app.link/20171211-0007

[Trailer]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bruYK0sogqA

(Teaching Biology, Girija Gopalakrishnan, Kasiga International School, Teacher, Education, Professor, Educationist, Biologist)

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