Today we’ll learn about Ms. Pamela Rampley, who strives to be a champion for students in her daily teaching practice. Holding a Master’s of Integrated Science Education from the University of Pennsylvania, Pamela has been teaching since 2005. She’s taught almost every scientific discipline, including courses on climate change and the science of music.
As an advocate of an active, inquiry-based approach to learning science, Pamela seeks to develop positive relationships with her students all the while modeling for them how to become lifelong learners. Read on to learn more about Ms. Rampley’s passion for teaching.
Q: When did you decide to become a teacher, and why did you choose this field?
I am quite certain that I always wanted to be a teacher when I grew up. I chose the field of science education because I wanted to combine my love of science with my desire to be in a profession that helps people.
Q: How do you hope to make a difference at Concordia?
I hope to instill scientific literacy and inspire scientific curiosity in my students here at Concordia. I want my students to believe that anyone can learn and do science. I’d also like to inspire the students in my applied learning class: Love to Serve, Serve to Love, to lead change in a complex and dynamic world as stated in Concordia’s vision statement. I want my students to believe that they can take responsibility for their learning and make true, meaningful changes as a result.
Q: What is your teaching philosophy?
At its core, my teaching philosophy is quite simple: Teach the student first and the content second. Although I am very passionate about the various scientific disciplines that I have taught, I am even more heartfelt about the students that I teach. Rita F. Pierson, a professional educator, stated that, “Every child deserves a champion - an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists they become the best they can possibly be.” In my daily teaching practice, I strive to be that champion for my students.
Ms. Rampley's commitment to education underscores the transformative role teachers play in shaping curious minds, proving that at Concordia, teaching goes beyond imparting knowledge; it's about inspiring a lifelong passion for learning.
