Andrea Bixler
Associate Professor of Biology
| Email: |
|
| Office: |
223 CBH |
| Mail Stop: |
1741 |
| Phone: |
6616 |
Degrees Held
BA, Swarthmore College
Ph.D., University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Andrea's Teaching Philosophy:
Rigor and relevance. My courses are challenging--what's the point of just memorizing the text? Instead, let's take the information, analyze it and apply it in new situations. They are also related to the student's own life and the "real world." I accomplish this through activities such as laboratories in which the student picks the question and the methods; no one, including me, knows what the answer will be. This is how scientists work.
Andrea's Professional Involvement:
I am involved in improving science education by working with K-12 teachers through RiverQuest (professional development program at Clarke) and Every Learner Inquires (statewide initiative).
Why students should choose Clarke:
We really are a caring, learning community. It's not just a slogan.
Andrea's Extracurricular Activities and Interests:
Reading, cooking, running and beading.
Andrea's Favorites:
Quote: If I am not for myself, who is? And if I am only for myself, what am I? If not now, when?--Hillel
Favorite black-and-white movie: "L'Atalante." I'll never be able to decide on my favorite modern movie, but for fun, I enjoy the rom coms like "French Kiss," and even zom rom coms like "Fido."
Book: To Say Nothing of the Dog by Connie Willis.