Hello!
My name is Zachary Burkhardt. I am currently a 23 year old graduate student at the University of Mary Washington. I am attending the Master of Education program with the Initial License component. My endorsement area is in secondary biology. I hope you find my website both interesting and informational. If you have any questions or would like to contact me please click one of the "Contact Methods” links at top of any page Thank you for visiting! |
Education |
Teaching Experience |
Teaching Philosophy
When I consider my philosophical outlook on teaching, I continuously find that I want to use a mixture of the five common categories: essentialism, perennialism, progressivism, existentialism, and even a little bit of social reconstruction. This being said, I do not want certain aspects of my teaching to be ‘labeled’ as solely one of the existing types. Rather that it blends these common themes together to ultimately produce the best method for educating my students. To do this I first need to look at what I will base my curriculum on as a high school biology teacher. Then, how I will approach conducting my lesson plans, and finally how my role as a teacher will shape the relationships with my students and fellow colleagues.
My responsibilities as a teacher are based primarily on educating my students so that they understand the world they live in at a more relevant and informed manner. I want my students to see how the world interacts with them through biological aspects. I want them to comprehend how their bodies work, where their food and energy comes from, and how beautifully complex the life on our planet is. Unfortunately, my subject does have a corresponding state standardized test (SOL) so some of what I will teach will be dictated by the weight of certain topics present on that test. Regardless, I feel that even though some of the material on the SOL is not particularly relevant, I plan on finding interactive means for educating my students. The phrase, “Seeing is believing,” goes hand in hand with my philosophy that students learn best when they physically experience new information.
I plan on taking full advantage of lab hours so that my students can see what they are learning about. While the lab/hands on experiences will be the bulk of my curriculum, I will also have time designated for short lectures, a considerable amount of group interaction, and a few open-ended projects. I believe that the role of a teacher should be able to transition from different types based on the method of teaching being conducted. For example, there are some cases where a teacher needs to be an informer, like during lectures. This is an opportunity for me to pass on information that I have learned about biology to students. In order to affirm the information I have given, I want my class to be able to interact among themselves and discuss the subject matter. I realize that I can only give a limited amount of viewpoints on a topic, but by letting students talk amongst themselves, there is opportunity for more viewpoints to be shared, possibly making it easier for some to understand the material.
While students interact with each other, I will change to become more of a mediator. I will be there to answer questions or resolve disputes between viewpoints, but for the most part I am simply giving them the opportunity to learn on their own. However, when we move into the lab, my role will change to more of an authoritative style. The reason for this is primarily due to safety concerns. I understand that education is important, but safety takes precedence in the lab as some of the equipment may be dangerous if not used properly. In this case, a stricter style is also more appropriate because lab work is very sequential in nature. If the students are to receive the maximum benefit from the experience, then the work needs to be conducted in a safe and proper manner.
To balance the amount of authoritative teaching, I want to give students the opportunity to complete assignments or projects in an open-ended format. For example, I plan to have a “make a cell” project. As long as students create a model that highlights key parts of the cell, they are free to do this in nearly any fashion. Whether the cell is made out of Jell-O, Legos, car parts, or a virtual 3D model, the student is free to express how they would represent a living cell. I believe that freedom such as this helps to create motivation for students. Even outside of the classroom, people are more likely to put forth effort if they find the topic interesting.
The transitioning of teaching styles along with the creative freedoms in assignments places important responsibilities on the students as well. At the beginning of the school year I want my students to realize that since there will be different learning styles throughout the class, they need to be respectful to their peers even when they are not directly interacting with each other. Since there is also more freedom in how projects are executed, the amount of effort expected per assignment will be higher compared to most classes. I believe that the key for students understanding their role in the class starts with the relationship between them and the teacher.
Ultimately, the most important aspect of the relationship is respect. In order for me to successfully educate my students, there needs to be a certain level of respect for me as a teacher and for each individual student. The best way to establish this, I feel, is not for me to ‘rule with an iron fist’ but to work the classroom in a way that makes the students feel their opinions and values are important – which they are. Some of the most crucial moments in teaching come when students are talking to the educator before or after class. Simply listening to how a student’s weekend went, or how a local sports team did are great moments for a teacher to gain more knowledge and build trust with their students. If time is taken to listen, then students will see this and in turn be more receptive when the teacher is speaking. I hold true that a teacher must also be flexible to changing assignments or a grading procedure if there is significant negative feedback from the students.
It is also important for a teacher to build a strong collaboration with their co-employees. By discussing certain assignments, teaching styles, and individual students, teachers can construct their classroom in a fashion that utilizes proven educating methods. More cooperation with fellow employees will also result in students being better prepared for the next grade level and help cut down on frustrating catch up time. As teachers, the ultimate goal of all is to educate our students to the best of our abilities. If we work together then we should be able to evolve faster and produce a better, happier, more educated student.
My responsibilities as a teacher are based primarily on educating my students so that they understand the world they live in at a more relevant and informed manner. I want my students to see how the world interacts with them through biological aspects. I want them to comprehend how their bodies work, where their food and energy comes from, and how beautifully complex the life on our planet is. Unfortunately, my subject does have a corresponding state standardized test (SOL) so some of what I will teach will be dictated by the weight of certain topics present on that test. Regardless, I feel that even though some of the material on the SOL is not particularly relevant, I plan on finding interactive means for educating my students. The phrase, “Seeing is believing,” goes hand in hand with my philosophy that students learn best when they physically experience new information.
I plan on taking full advantage of lab hours so that my students can see what they are learning about. While the lab/hands on experiences will be the bulk of my curriculum, I will also have time designated for short lectures, a considerable amount of group interaction, and a few open-ended projects. I believe that the role of a teacher should be able to transition from different types based on the method of teaching being conducted. For example, there are some cases where a teacher needs to be an informer, like during lectures. This is an opportunity for me to pass on information that I have learned about biology to students. In order to affirm the information I have given, I want my class to be able to interact among themselves and discuss the subject matter. I realize that I can only give a limited amount of viewpoints on a topic, but by letting students talk amongst themselves, there is opportunity for more viewpoints to be shared, possibly making it easier for some to understand the material.
While students interact with each other, I will change to become more of a mediator. I will be there to answer questions or resolve disputes between viewpoints, but for the most part I am simply giving them the opportunity to learn on their own. However, when we move into the lab, my role will change to more of an authoritative style. The reason for this is primarily due to safety concerns. I understand that education is important, but safety takes precedence in the lab as some of the equipment may be dangerous if not used properly. In this case, a stricter style is also more appropriate because lab work is very sequential in nature. If the students are to receive the maximum benefit from the experience, then the work needs to be conducted in a safe and proper manner.
To balance the amount of authoritative teaching, I want to give students the opportunity to complete assignments or projects in an open-ended format. For example, I plan to have a “make a cell” project. As long as students create a model that highlights key parts of the cell, they are free to do this in nearly any fashion. Whether the cell is made out of Jell-O, Legos, car parts, or a virtual 3D model, the student is free to express how they would represent a living cell. I believe that freedom such as this helps to create motivation for students. Even outside of the classroom, people are more likely to put forth effort if they find the topic interesting.
The transitioning of teaching styles along with the creative freedoms in assignments places important responsibilities on the students as well. At the beginning of the school year I want my students to realize that since there will be different learning styles throughout the class, they need to be respectful to their peers even when they are not directly interacting with each other. Since there is also more freedom in how projects are executed, the amount of effort expected per assignment will be higher compared to most classes. I believe that the key for students understanding their role in the class starts with the relationship between them and the teacher.
Ultimately, the most important aspect of the relationship is respect. In order for me to successfully educate my students, there needs to be a certain level of respect for me as a teacher and for each individual student. The best way to establish this, I feel, is not for me to ‘rule with an iron fist’ but to work the classroom in a way that makes the students feel their opinions and values are important – which they are. Some of the most crucial moments in teaching come when students are talking to the educator before or after class. Simply listening to how a student’s weekend went, or how a local sports team did are great moments for a teacher to gain more knowledge and build trust with their students. If time is taken to listen, then students will see this and in turn be more receptive when the teacher is speaking. I hold true that a teacher must also be flexible to changing assignments or a grading procedure if there is significant negative feedback from the students.
It is also important for a teacher to build a strong collaboration with their co-employees. By discussing certain assignments, teaching styles, and individual students, teachers can construct their classroom in a fashion that utilizes proven educating methods. More cooperation with fellow employees will also result in students being better prepared for the next grade level and help cut down on frustrating catch up time. As teachers, the ultimate goal of all is to educate our students to the best of our abilities. If we work together then we should be able to evolve faster and produce a better, happier, more educated student.
Designed Lesson Plan
I designed a one week unit based on block scheduling (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) for 90 minutes class periods.
This unit is Part 1 of a 3 part total unit to cover SOL standard BIO.3: The student will investigate and understand relationships between cell structure and function. Each unit will receive one week.
Part 1 focuses on BIO.3: a) Evidence supporting cell theory; and c) Similarities between the activities of the organelles in a single cell and a whole organism.
This unit is Part 1 of a 3 part total unit to cover SOL standard BIO.3: The student will investigate and understand relationships between cell structure and function. Each unit will receive one week.
Part 1 focuses on BIO.3: a) Evidence supporting cell theory; and c) Similarities between the activities of the organelles in a single cell and a whole organism.
Work Experience
Paul Henry’s Windows - Warrenton, VA – (June 2013 – Present)
• Extensive use and education with OSHA safety standards
• Advanced carpentry practices in windows, doors, siding, small roofing, and trim
• Responsible for upholding superior standards in both installation and customer satisfaction
CIS Secure Computing – Dulles Trade Center, VA – (December 2010 – June 2013)
• Voice Over Internet Protocol department
• High profile customers including: NCIS, DIA, DSS, USACIC, CFA, AFOSI
• Responsible for preparation, assembly, testing, and shipping of highly secure
telecommunication products including Tempest-based models
• Temporary security clearance – granted for on-site job locations
• Selected to be member of service team responsible for high priority clients
• Proficient in production-based work
Gold’s Gym: Front Desk – Culpeper, VA - (June 2009 – December 2010)
• Responsible for all cash and credit transactions
• Educated in customer service and professional communications
• High necessity for proper time management
• Extensive use and education with OSHA safety standards
• Advanced carpentry practices in windows, doors, siding, small roofing, and trim
• Responsible for upholding superior standards in both installation and customer satisfaction
CIS Secure Computing – Dulles Trade Center, VA – (December 2010 – June 2013)
• Voice Over Internet Protocol department
• High profile customers including: NCIS, DIA, DSS, USACIC, CFA, AFOSI
• Responsible for preparation, assembly, testing, and shipping of highly secure
telecommunication products including Tempest-based models
• Temporary security clearance – granted for on-site job locations
• Selected to be member of service team responsible for high priority clients
• Proficient in production-based work
Gold’s Gym: Front Desk – Culpeper, VA - (June 2009 – December 2010)
• Responsible for all cash and credit transactions
• Educated in customer service and professional communications
• High necessity for proper time management
Me Outside of School and Work
So what do I like to do outside of work and school you might ask? Most people would probably list a slew of hobbies or likes – however, for me I have one simple answer.
I enjoy hunting! I absolutely love being outside and in the woods. I enjoy hunting all types of game including: rabbit, squirrel, predators (fox, coyotes), turkey, and especially white tail deer. Even if I spend my evenings in a tree stand without seeing a single thing, I still enjoy the peace and tranquility that hunting in the woods can offer. I am an ethical hunter, who will only take game if it is going to be eaten or because it has become a pest to the local wildlife. I do not believe in “trophy hunting” which is hunting purely for the sake of large horns or a rare hide. I both believe in and follow both Virginia State and Federal laws associated with wildlife. On a personal level I try to represent the hunting community any chance I can in a positive and respectful light. Like many other communities, the hunting community has its share of individuals who tarnish the reputation of the community as a whole. However, these people are only a small skewed representation of the truly caring, thoughtful, respectful, and dedicated individuals that collectively call themselves hunters. In an attempt to share some of the joy hunting brings me, I have edited a picture that I took while in a tree stand this year. I hope you like it and see the same beauty I see every time I step into the woods. |
Image taken by Zachary Burkhardt
Image was edited with the help of http://ipiccy.com |