TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

I have been a lecturer in Cell biology and Animal cell cultures for more than 10 years. My teaching experience includes also lectures and practical classes in Cytological methods in clinical diagnostics, Stem cells and regeneration and Flow cytometry, as well as lectures in Bionanotechnologies. Throughout my career at the University of Plovdiv I have always been committed to study constantly and improve my lectures every year in consideration with the newest findings in the field and the ever-changing needs of the students; seeking and accepting feedback, acknowledging that people learn differently and have specific and individual interests. I strive to apply the most appropriate methods of education and assessment of students’ knowledge. My educational philosophy is based on three main principles – respect for the student, continuous refinement of the educational process and strong motivation.

An important goal of my lectures is to motivate students and sharpen their interest in the discipline by presenting intriguing examples that link the theoretical knowledge to the human health, specific pathological conditions, clinical practice and/or biotechnological industry. I believe that students who are motivated and inspired to learn will come to the University with a positive mindset which will strongly improve the educational process. By asking questions or discussing a specific problem I probe what the students’ knowledge base is, what they think and why they chose a specific course of action helping them discover their own ability to solve problems. Discussions empower students to take the next step in the learning process.

As a scientist excited by the content I teach, I am convinced that the opportunity to share my inspiration with the students will motivate them for further studies and will stimulate their critical thinking.