2016 Teaching Initiative Award Winner
Amanda Miller, Ph.D.
- Ph.D. in Mathematics Education, Illinois State University (2013)
- Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics
Teaching philosophy
I believe that errors are opportunities to learn and that it is important to emphasize process (thinking) over product (correct and speedy answers) during classroom discussions.
Three most valuable approaches that I bring to my teaching practice
- Treat every day as a new day, for me and for my students.
- Move (e.g., don’t just stand at the computer cart) model (i.e., how to teach for sense making, how to provide constructive feedback), and motivate
- There is no such thing as perfect teaching—just keep swimming, growing, trying.
The person that has been the most important influence in my teacher career
My colleague, Dr. Cynthia Langrall, is woman of integrity and a great researcher and editor. I admire her professionally and personally.
The resource or person that has been the most important influence in my teaching career
My husband and my parents. They have always supported me and cheered me on during good and bad days. I also think my colleagues are a great resource, I feel privileged to work in a department where all ideas are respected, heard, and acknowledged and where we laugh and have fun teaching.
The most rewarding aspect of teaching for me
When colleagues or teachers in area schools tell me they have heard lots of good things about my teaching from my students and give specifics. I love receiving notes and emails from my former students and non-students that I have made a difference.
