While reading a selection from our class textbook, I noticed that the term, “scientific self,” was used quite often. I then attempted to decipher the meanings behind this term. There had to be some significance to this term because it was used so much. Thinking scientifically, I came to the conclusion that the author must have meant for, “scientific thinking,” to be understood as one’s knowledge of science that can be taught to their students in a confident manner. To me, science is important and the more one practices it, the better their skills will become.
One of my past teachers was definitely aware of her scientific self, along with every other liberal arts subject. My third grade teacher, Miss Levine, influenced me positively about all the subjects I learned in the duration of that particular year. She always had a positive, friendly attitude and encouraged all questions and thoughts from each and every one of her students.
On the other side of the spectrum, there was one teacher I will never forget that influenced me in a negative way about science. My Earth Science professor during my freshman year of college did not make his course understandable or enjoyable to any of his pupils. Every class day he had a miserable attitude and it felt as though he got joy out of giving poor grades out to students. This professor was never willing to entertain questions about the materials covered in class. He made it well-known that no one in his course was to receive an A, which discouraged many students in his class. From these classroom experiences have taught me that in order to make school time enjoyable for children, I must always have a positive attitude, encourage questioning and thinking outside of the box, as well as helping struggling students instead of giving out poor grades.
The varying images of these two teachers also aides in the ability to enjoy class time. My third grade teacher looked orderly and calm every day. My Earth Science professor looked very uptight with his shirt tucked in tight and disorderly hair. He looked frantic like typical scientists were to look. If I were to draw a scientist that would appeal to elementary students, I would attempt to omit the stereotyping of being a Caucasian male with glasses, crazy hair, and lab coat because I’ve learned everyone is a scientist in their own way. This tells me that my attitude about science is very open to anything and all types of people.
With the stereotyping of a scientist being a Caucasian male, it was difficult to think of at least two women of minority scientists. Elizabeth Garrett Anderson was the first woman to successfully complete the medical qualifying exams in Great Britain. She was also the first ever woman physician. Elizabeth Arden was the founder and owner of a cosmetic company where she formulated the products that she then manufactured and sold.
Being a woman that thinks scientifically, I have to start realizing all of the endless opportunities to explore nature. Whenever I go outside, I can observe birds and other wildlife, plants, and even the day-to-day weather changes.
"The most wonderful discovery made by scientists is science itself."
-Jacob Bronowski
