Terminens Ros: Celebrating Teaching Success

I am thrilled to share that I have been honored with the "Terminens Ros" award by the Biomedicine students this semester. For those unfamiliar, the "Terminens Ros" is a special recognition given by students at Umeå University to a teacher who has made a significant positive impact through their teaching and engagement. This recognition is particularly meaningful to me, not only because it comes from the students themselves but also because it marks a significant milestone in my teaching journey.

The First Full Course Responsibility

This year was my first time having full responsibility for a course. With this new role came the opportunity to implement a teaching concept that I had been passionate about. I introduced the use of Mentimeter for real-time questions and feedback, fostering an interactive and engaging learning environment. Discussions were encouraged, allowing students to voice their thoughts and deepen their understanding through dialogue.

Creating a Safe Space for Learning

One of the core elements of my teaching approach was the design of lab sessions. These labs were not just about performing experiments; they were about encouraging independence and creating a safe space where mistakes could happen. Instead of focusing on examination during the labs, I aimed to explain concepts thoroughly, ensuring that students grasped the material before the actual exams. This approach was intended to build confidence and promote a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Learning from Experience

As with any new endeavor, not everything went perfectly. There were challenges and unexpected hurdles along the way. However, these experiences were invaluable. Together with the students' constructive feedback, we identified areas for improvement and worked collaboratively to refine the course. This iterative process of feedback and adjustment is something I am deeply committed to, and it motivates me to continually enhance the learning experience.

The Joy of Teaching

Teaching is more than just imparting knowledge; it is about inspiring and being inspired. The positive evaluations and the "Terminens Ros" award have been incredibly motivating. They remind me of the impact that a thoughtful and student-centered approach can have. The rose now sits proudly on my desk, and the diploma has a special place in my office, serving as daily reminders of the joy and fulfillment that teaching brings.

Looking Ahead

As I reflect on this past semester, I am filled with pride and excitement for the future. The journey of teaching is one of continuous learning and growth, both for the students and for myself. I am eager to build on this experience, to innovate further, and to continue creating an environment where students can thrive.

Thank you to all the students for this incredible honor. Your feedback and support are the driving forces behind my passion for teaching. I look forward to another year of learning, growth, and shared success.