Shoshana Leffler

Cerebellum-Inspired Teaching Strategies for Teaching Computer Science to Diverse Learners

As an educator with a background in developmental genetics and a strong belief in the power of inquiry-based learning, I’ve witnessed firsthand how diverse students can thrive when teaching strategies align with their unique learning needs. One area that has captivated my attention is the cerebellum, a part of the brain traditionally associated with motor […]

Simulating the Mind: Using Computer Science to Explore the Brain and Beyond

As an educator passionate about both science and technology, I’m always looking for innovative ways to connect students to real-world applications. One area that has captured both their curiosity and mine is the study of the brain through computer science. The human brain is the most complex “computer” we know, and thanks to advancements in […]

Differentiation in STEM: Teaching Chemistry and Computer Science to Diverse Learners

As a STEM educator working in Title 1 schools, I’ve had the privilege—and the challenge—of teaching diverse groups of students. Many of them have special needs, and a significant number are English Language Learners (ELL). In these classrooms, the “one-size-fits-all” approach simply does not work. Instead, differentiation becomes not just a teaching strategy, but a […]

Creating Inclusive Classrooms in Title 1 Schools: Supporting Special Needs and ELL Students in STEM

Teaching STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) in Title 1 schools—schools where a significant percentage of students come from low-income families—presents unique challenges. As an educator working in these environments, I’ve learned that inclusivity is crucial, especially when teaching subjects like chemistry and computer science to students with special needs and English Language Learners (ELL). […]

How to Use Assessment and Feedback to Enhance Inquiry-Based Learning

In the realm of education, assessment and feedback play crucial roles in guiding student learning and development. When it comes to inquiry-based learning, where students actively explore and investigate, these elements become even more essential. Having spent considerable time designing assessments and providing feedback in my own classroom, I’ve come to appreciate how these practices […]

Creating Inquiry-Based Learning Lesson Plans: A Personal Approach

As an educator dedicated to fostering curiosity and critical thinking, I’ve found that inquiry-based learning is one of the most effective approaches to engage students and deepen their understanding. This method shifts the focus from traditional lecture-based instruction to a more dynamic and student-centered exploration. Here, I’ll share my personal approach to creating inquiry-based lesson […]

Integrating Mathematical Models in High School Biology: The Case of the Cerebellum

Integrating mathematical models into high school biology can revolutionize how students understand complex biological processes. One compelling example is the cerebellum, a part of the brain that plays a crucial role in motor control and coordination. By using mathematical models to study the cerebellum, educators can provide students with a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of […]