Brian Berning

Teaching Philosophy

Important skills I want to teach my students

The number one skill that I try to teach my students is to think! I want them to think critically, to be able to apply their knowledge to solve problems and answer the difficult questions.

Teaching methods to reach these goals

We use all kinds of models – most importantly, hands-on activities and lab experiments. For example, when applicable: using “flip teaching,” we spend valuable class time working together and discussing a problem or project that might otherwise have been homework, while at home the students watch the lecture video.

My favorite projects

I have so many favorites, but certainly among them are making root beer, fruit lab, video newscast, and the biotechnology labs.

What I like best about teaching at Seven Hills

I like having freedom in my teaching (as opposed to having to “teach to a test”), the luxury of meeting with students outside of class for advisories and specials projects, support from school administration, and small class sizes. It is amazing what we can do in environments rich with resources and students who are eager and engaged learners.