Brooke Porter-Ph.D.
Credentials
Ph.D. in Tourism from Auckland University of Technology in Auckland, New Zealand
M.Ed. in Education/Instructional Leadership from Chaminade in University, Honolulu, Hawaii
B.Sc. in Marine Biology from Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, Florida
Teaching since 2007 (Executive Level); 2011 (University Level)
Background and Teaching Philosophy
As a scientist and an educator, it is Brooke Porter’s responsibility to support students in pursuit of three learning objectives: (1) develop self-awareness of the environmental impacts of individual and collective actions; (2) cultivate an interest in finding applicable solutions to real-world problems; (3) advance critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities. Environmental science education should also produce students who are able to effectively communicate issues and strategies, be able to apply their knowledge, and use those applications to make positive changes.
She focuses on incorporating and applying real-life experiences into her teaching. While classroom spaces are convenient and the norm, the lesson should not be bound by walls. Common experiences, including current issues and local events, can, and should, provide introductions to lessons, if not form the basis for the lesson itself. Brooke wants students to understand environmental issues and management strategies through hands-on participation in order to become engaged and model citizens for the betterment of our planet.
An interactive classroom is her goal. Her style of interpretive teaching uses common concepts or known objects to explain the lesser known. Effective interpretation accommodates a diverse group of learners in multiple ways. Brooke wants her students to find motivation in the course content and fulfillment through participation and engagement. She prioritizes learning that requires critical thinking and strategy in real-world applications. She firmly believes that both the student and teacher share the right to question one another. Effective teachers create opportunities for the students to succeed.