STEM’s Influence on My Teaching
Cassandra Orishaniyi – Online Science Instructor with Edmentum
My journey as a science instructor started in 1989 at Vicksburg High School. I taught biology, consumer science (which is what we call physical science today) and a resource science class in which I cotaught with a special education teacher. I moved to Memphis, TN after getting married and over a span of twenty years I taught many science disciplines such as physical science, biology, chemistry, principles of technology (physics applications for career technical students), and engineering technical education. I became a teacher because of injustices I witnessed as a kindergarten teacher assistant.
As a career technical teacher, I learned the principles of STEM before the term was even coined. As a result of the type courses I was teaching, I was able to incorporate critical thinking, problem solving, and research skills. Many students who were problems in other classes were intrigued by the hands-on learning and the ability to be creative in the engineering technical ed class. These students were kinesthetic and enjoyed working cooperatively while being challenged to think critically and solve real world problems.
I moved back to Mississippi and the last ten years of my career, I was able to incorporate STEM into my robotics classes at The Academy of Innovation and as the ACME (Architecture, Construction, Mechatronics and Engineering) lead teacher. Over the last ten years of teaching career, I sponsored robotics clubs, mentored and coached students in grades 7- 10 through a Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF)/Department of Defense grant funded STEM pilot and inspired many students to enter the fields of science, technology, engineering and technology.
When Covid started, I transitioned to online instruction. I currently teach remotely as an online science instructor with Edmentum. I now use my knowledge of science to help students who may not have specific science courses in their schools or even no science teachers are present due to the exodus from the profession. As a remote instructor, I am certified in MS, TN, IN, IL, AL, VA, MO, and FL.
My Why: I was asked during one of my interviews over 35 years ago, “why do you want to teach?”. My response was I want to teach the unlovable and inspire the unteachable. I believe that all students can learn and achieve. Science education opens a world of wonder that some students are initially afraid of but through inquiry become socially aware and realize the impact of global issues in their lives.
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