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Estralita Martin, Ph.D.

TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

Undergraduate students majoring in biology with aspirations toward graduate or professional school, to teach courses in the life sciences, or to enter programs in biotechnology are usually highly motivated and inquisitive. I believe that undergraduate school is the place to broaden one's awareness toward local, national and global horizons. Therefore, biology majors should be offered courses structured around the different levels of biological organization (biochemical, cellular, physiological and ecological).

It is the university's role to expose students to research and teaching which emphasize the important fundamental processes that occur at each of these levels. Three factors that contribute to students receiving a fundamental foundation are small classes with professors who encourage student participation, the realization that there are no "stupid questions", and the opportunity to get hands on experience in research laboratories. With this foundation, future training and study in any area of biology is possible - from plant breeding to animal husbandry and genetic counseling, from medical microbiology to ecological and disease epidemology, from veterinary science to cancer research.

My background qualifies me to teach basic and/or advance classes covering 1) classic experiments in modern biology/laboratory techniques, 2) cell biology, 3) vertebrate embryology, 4) molecular biology, 5) endocrinology, 6) immunology, and 7) kinesiology. I can also teach introductory courses in anatomy, neurobiology, animal/human physiology, cancer, and genetics if needed, as well as fundamental classes for nonmajors.

I believe lab courses should accompany all lecture courses for it is in the labs where students get hands on experience with the theories taught in the classroom. Experiencing the trials and tribulations of early scientists and the advantages of present technologies to answer old and new questions are invaluable. Along with structured lecture and laboratory classes, professors should encourage and provide interested undergraduate students with an opportunity to work closely with them in their laboratories. This exposure of guided yet independent laboratory experience is a valuable contribution for graduate school and career goals for students. Besides lab experience and teaching assistantships, graduate students should be required to take seminar courses dealing with grant writing, critical analysis of journal articles, and oral presentations of their work. This preparation can only make for better scientists in the work force.

 

Profile / Circum Vitae / Publications
Teaching Philosophy / Research Interest / Home
www.esmartin.com