Anatomy and Physiology Teaching: A New Approach
As an educator with over 20 years of experience in teaching Anatomy and Physiology at both the college and high school levels, I have dedicated my career to exploring the wonders of the human body to my students.
My journey has been one of continuous learning and adaptation that only comes when trying to make complex concepts accessible and engaging. I want to share insights I’ve gained over my career in anatomy and physiology teaching.
Looking for resources as a student? Check out my A&P Getting Started post.
Teaching Anatomy and Physiology
I think most science teachers start with a passion for the subject and it is a great place to start. Unfortunately, it is just a foundation. Teaching at the college level provided me with a profound understanding of the depth and breadth of Anatomy and Physiology.
High school teaching brought a unique energy and curiosity to the classroom, challenging me to find innovative ways to make the subject matter relatable and engaging. Over the years, I have developed a teaching approach that combines traditional methods with cutting-edge technology, ensuring that my students receive a well-rounded education.
Embracing Student-Centered Instruction: How to Teach Anatomy and Physiology
Central to my teaching philosophy is the belief in scaffolded education. This approach involves building on students’ prior knowledge and gradually introducing more complex concepts.
I refer to it as creating a place for the new knowledge to hang. By connecting new information to what students already know, my hope is to develop a deeper understanding and foster a sense of confidence in their abilities.
Hands-on learning is another cornerstone of my teaching philosophy. I firmly believe that students learn best by doing.
Whether it’s through experiments, scavenger hunts, learning stations, or escape rooms, I strive to create an student-centered learning environment. These activities not only make learning fun but also help students retain information more effectively through active engagement.
Incorporating technology into the classroom has been transformative. Virtual lab simulations, interactive presentations, and online resources provide students with opportunities to witness content that makes it accessible.
Technology serves as a powerful tool for communication, reinforcement, and acquiring new information, complementing traditional teaching methods. It does require a balanced approach to use it effectively.
The A&P Resource Hub: A Gateway to Success
Recognizing the need for organized, accessible resources, I established the A&P Resource Hub.
This platform offers a growing library of resources, including worksheets, notes, presentations, escape rooms, and task cards. There is a mix of editable, digital, and print resources.
The hub is designed to eliminate the stress of searching the web or buying individual resources, providing educators with a comprehensive, ad-free portal to support their teaching needs and supplement their curriculum.
The A&P Resource Hub also offers professional development opportunities. I know that most biology majors don’t even take A&P in college.
By joining the hub, teachers can reduce stress and spend less time on preparation, allowing them to focus more on what truly matters – their students’ learning experiences.
Conclusion
Teaching Anatomy and Physiology is a rewarding and ever-evolving journey. With over 20 years of experience, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of student-centered instruction.
Using a student centered approach and embracing scaffolded education, hands-on learning, and technology, we can create a better A&P course.
Through the A&P Resource Hub, educators can access a wealth of resources to support their teaching efforts, ultimately fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of this fascinating field.
Join me in this journey of discovery and innovation.
Forget the old way of teaching with just lecture and create a different and better experience for our students. Inspire the next generation of scientists, healthcare professionals, and lifelong learners.
