...ON
TEACHING (from Albert Einstein)
Of the many Einstein quotes, I subscribe to this one the most; "I never
teach my pupils; I only attempt to provide the conditions in which they
can learn".
...ON
TEACHING (from Julius Sumner Miller)
My teaching philosophy is so eloquently expressed in this quote by the
wonderful Professor Julius Sumner Miller;
"What I have to say holds for the
teaching of anything -- science, literature, poetry, mathematics,
navigation and rock climbing -- all, indeed, that comes within the pale
of human knowledge.
We teach very little. What we do, if we
are successful, is to stir interest in the matter at hand, awaken
enthusiasm for it, arouse a curiosity, kindle a feeling, fire up the
imagination.
Not too many teachers are endowed or
equipped to do these things. And for this we can in part blame their
teachers. This scheme of 'instruction' is a far cry from the mere
communication and recitation of facts.
What is needed is enthusiasm first and
competence first. There is nothing second! Although each or one of
these alone is a good start, one without the other is impotent.
But if I had a choice I would have enthusiasm first. Teachers must
themselves be excited if they are to sell their goods. And they
can do an exciting job in stirring the student without themselves
knowing all the answers.
As I see it then, the teacher
communicates too much fact and the students ingests too much. The
teachers tells her what she should know, this she acquires transiently
and superficially, and to the degree she regurgitates it is her success
measured. And her brain has been barely touched.
Teachers must, I say, recite less facts,
ask more questions, in classrooms, on the campus or on a wilderness
experience. The drama and beauty and aesthetic of the subject must be
pointed up.
The intellectual process
must be stirred. A feeling for knowledge for its own sake must be
engendered. Learning will then be an exciting adventure which few
can escape, nor will many wish to. And it will bring the spirit to
a great awakening which can likely last a lifetime."
From The Weekend
Australian, October 24-25, 1992, pg. 30.
...ON GOD,
SCIENCE, AND INTELLIGENT DESIGN
For me, the study of science and a belief in God does not conflict. I
believe God created the heavens and the earth and us (HOW He did it is
far beyond me and really does not interfere with my faith or my
scientific endeavors). I believe God is evident in all things in our
universe and our world. For me, science is but one tool in our quest for
truth and truth can never be fully realized without connecting all the
parts i.e. physical, mental, and spiritual.
Since physics is the
study of the physical-natural world/universe, our faith in God need not
be in conflict with those physical studies. Intelligent Design is a
belief some people (myself included) will "naturally" come to conclude
as truth. Therefore, I see no need to make it an "agenda" for physics
(science) textbooks.... I believe the conclusion will come "naturally"
to the believer or seeker i.e. those who seek the Lord will find Him.
...ON LIFE
I believe man is
born with a sinful nature and needs a Savior (i.e. we cannot "save
ourselves" through our good works). I believe Jesus came to reconcile us
to the Father and that through His redemptive work on the cross, we find
life, forgiveness, purpose, joy, peace, and unconditional love.
...ON MUSIC
Classical music
composition is my heart's voice. I believe music should glorify God,
serve as a resource for enjoyment, a place to have your spirit touched,
lifted, and re-energized. For me, the best musical vehicle to accomplish
this goal is tonal and structured compositions. Music usually reflects
the times in which it was written. Today's music is no exception.
Unfortunately, the narcissism, irresponsibility, and anger (rage) of our
society is reflected in some of today's music. Personally, I find no
enjoyment from works that are thus conceived. I invite you to listen to
my compositions; you can listen to my works at the Classical Music
Archives (here).
