Teaching Portfolio

Educator, World Traveler, and Lifelong Learner

Teaching Philosophy

Why and How I Teach

Why I Teach

I have always been fascinated with learning new things and exploring the world around me, trying to understand how ideas and concepts fit together to make a unified whole. It has never been enough for me to simply be given a fact and to be told that it is true, I need to know where that fact came from and how it fits in with other facts and ideas, and how they collectively fit into our world. This curiosity has naturally pushed me into academia, and furthermore, into teaching. Given my own love of learning, teaching others became a passion of mine, and just as my interest and curiosity about the world pushed me to learn as much as I can about it, my passion for teaching has pushed me to expand my teaching skills and pedagogical knowledge.

Helping students understand challenging and difficult subjects is an empowering experience, and moreover acts to empower the students themselves. The self-esteem and courage gained by mastering difficult material helps students to view themselves in a new and more positive light – if they can conquer calculus, they can conquer the world! 

Teaching allows me to stay intellectually engaged with interesting material and gives me the opportunity to play a humble, but essential role in the growth and development of our future generations. This is why I teach.  

How I Teach

My teaching techniques & course planning are based on scientifically researched and proven pedagogical methodologies.

    • Cognitive science research points to a few key results that help shape my teaching:
      • Students must construct knowledge for themselves by spending a lot of time thinking about the material and practicing, but I can guide that construction in positive ways by creating optimal learning environments like a flipped classroom and a thinking classroom  
      • Students have limited working memory and cannot perceive information and material in an interconnected and structured way, so I explicitly work with students to help them construct the appropriate connections and knowledge structures
      • The more knowledge and experience students have in a subject the faster they can learn new material in that field, so I work to ensure that the students have a solid base of knowledge and facts before helping them to learn more advanced and abstract concepts
    • Research has shown that cultivating a growth mindset can greatly change students’ approach and feelings about learning new and difficult material
      • Mistakes are reframed and celebrated as learning opportunities
      • By using a flipped classroom, I have students think of work periods as a workout in a mental gym where they can strengthen their brain “muscles”
      • In the classroom, I foster a community of inquiry where students see themselves as part of a group which is continually learning more about the world together through cooperation and study. Within this community, diverse perspectives from all backgrounds are welcomed as they introduce new ideas and concepts which can be used to understand and analyze the world
    • Psychology research on motivation and transfer of knowledge suggest that students are more motivated to learn and more likely to transfer their knowledge and skills to new domains when they are embedded in a culture of learning
      • In my classes, I work to develop a culture centred around learning and intellectual exploration by introducing students to interesting philosophical ideas and concepts related to the course material
      • My classes are also decorated with engaging content such as codes and artworks that aim to get students thinking and to broaden their horizons
      • I work to frame learning as more than a means to an end. Students are encouraged to see learning as a pleasurable and inventive endeavour which they have the privilege to take part in

My Teaching Symbol

Collaboration and Communication

    • Maintain regular and open communication with other teachers and management to promote a constructive and evolving professional atmosphere
    • Make the classroom and work expectations clear for all students, so that the students know exactly what is expected of them in my classroom and what they can expect from me in return
    • Communicate openly with students and parents about progress and work habits to help students and their guardians stay involved in learning
    • Collaborate with other teachers and students to maintain an open and community based learning environment 

Assessment

    • Use diagnostic pre-assessments to try to appropriately gauge students’ knowledge and skill, and to activate appropriate areas of knowledge
    • Create opportunities for self-assessment & peer-assessment as means of learning
    • Use a mix of assessments OF, FOR, and AS learning in my classroom 
    • Work to ensure that all assessments are in line with Ontario’s Growing Success guidelines
    • Design fair summative assessments to identify student learning and ascertain achievement with respect to curriculum expectations 
    • Final grades are always decided on through a process of triangulation using observations, conversations, and products 

Video of my wife and I teaching English in China. My section of the video begins at 2:25.

Lifelong Learning

    • In my classroom, I aim to create independent, lifelong learners
    • Give students the opportunity to bring their own knowledge and experiences into the classroom and allow them to choose topics of their own interest
    • Encourage students to think beyond the classroom and how they can apply the knowledge that they gain to their own lives
    • I aim to give my students a basic idea of how humans come to gain knowledge about and understanding of the world around us and encourage them to explore new areas and to join in intellectual exploration beyond school studies
    • My students leave my classroom with the curiosity and ability to extend their knowledge on their own as a lifelong learner 

Skills Summary

Skills and Subject Areas of Concentration

Physics

Physics is a notoriously difficult subject for many students and requires a teacher with not only extensive knowledge of the field itself, but also a strong background in mathematics. Having studied mathematical physics as an undergraduate, I have developed a deep understanding of both subject fields and their various interconnections. My further studies in the philosophy of physics have added to and bolstered my skills and understanding of the field. My teaching of physics aims to help students develop the necessary procedural skills and knowledge they need to progress to the university level, but also aims to inspire students to think more critically and deeply about the world around them. 

Mathematics

Mathematics is often held to be a tedious and laborious subject; however, under the proper conditions and instruction math can be an engaging and exciting field of study. My undergraduate degree gave me the necessary skills and knowledge required to teach mathematics, but my graduate studies in the philosophy of mathematics made me see math in a completely new and unique way. I try to inject this dual nature in which I have come to view mathematics into my classes and try to foster a love of mathematics in my students. My training in the fields of mathematics and philosophy give me the skills required to present engaging and thought provoking lessons in mathematics that help students gain a deeper understanding of the subject.  

Cosmology & Astrophysics

During my undergraduate studies, I was able to complete a specialization in astrophysics, which explored the universe from the scale of planets up to the observable universe. I studied astronomy, the practical, experimental side of astrophysics, as well as , Einstein’s General Relativity, the deeply theoretical side. Furthermore, my studies in philosophy at both the undergraduate and graduate levels gave me the opportunity to focus on the philosophical underpinnings of cosmology and how we humans grapple with understanding the vast cosmos we find ourselves in. These experiences have given me the unique ability to help students develop a wide and deep understanding of their world.  

Philosophy

As an undergraduate student minoring in philosophy, I completed two research assistantships, one focusing in philosophy of physics and the other on the translation of a text on ancient philosophy from German to English. I was also the recipient of a Gold Medal prize for an undergraduate philosophy essay. I was then awarded a SSHRC Master’s Scholarship and completed a Master’s Degree in  Philosophy, specializing in the Philosophy of Physics & Mathematics. During my Master’s, I taught a Critical Thinking tutorial and was nominated for a teaching award. Collectively, these experiences have given me the skills and understanding of how to be successful in the academic world of philosophy as a student, teacher, and researcher. 

ESL

My training and experience in teaching English as a foreign language along with my own experience of learning a second language have given me an acute awareness of the needs of language learners. My study and work abroad experiences, which carried me from Germany and continental Europe to China and the far east, have also helped me to develop a keen sense of how important social context and environment can be to the learning of a new language. Combined, my training and experiences abroad have given me the skills necessary to be a successful English teacher; and furthermore, will no doubt assist me in teaching any subject in culturally & linguistically diverse classrooms and environments the world over.   

Coding - Python

As an undergraduate physics student I had the opportunity to take a computational physics class which was taught in Python. The class focused on data analysis and experimental simulations; two areas where computer coding has become invaluable. This experience has helped prepare me for teaching as the Ontario government has recently added coding to both the elementary and secondary curriculum. I also had the opportunity to teach coding with Python to three grade 8 classes during my first practicum, where I developed a lesson and assessment using Google Colaboratory and Google Classroom. The lesson focused on data analysis and central tendency, which the students had already been exposed to during their math lessons.   

Lesson Portfolio

Sample Lesson Plans and Slideshows

Flipped Classroom Lessons

Sample of Recorded Lectures & Extra Problem Solutions

Lecture Videos

Extra Problem Solution Videos

Teaching, Volunteer, & Educational Outreach Experience

Work History & Highlights

High School Mathematics & Physics Teacher

High Level Public School

High Level, AB, Canada

  • Taught various mathematics and physics courses: Math 15 (locally developed), Math 10C, Math 20-1, Math 30-1, Math 30-2, Physics 20, and Physics 30
  • Used daily retrieval practice in classes to help solidify and track student learning over time. Assessed and tracked the daily retrieval practice to give students feedback on the material as well as their communication and solution writing 
  • Implemented the use of Hypatia systems in mathematics classes which is software that allows students to complete practice exercises and assignments by typing out their solutions just like they would write them on paper
  • Used triangulation – observations, conversations, and products – to evaluate student performance
  • Provided extra help to a struggling students by offering help sessions after school twice a week. Recruited grade 11-12 students to assist with help sessions as tutors in training. Trained students how to properly tutor struggling students 
  • Organized various extra-curricular events and clubs focused on growth
    mindset, language learning, math & science engagement and literacy, and juggling

Practicum Placement 4
High School Mathematics & Physics Teacher Candidate

Westminster Secondary School

London, ON, Canada

  • Successfully implemented a flipped classroom for MBF3C, SPH3U, and SPH4U
  • Created and filmed lecture videos as well as extra problem solution videos
  • Created problem handouts for each class and graded assessments using achievement levels and a KICA approach
  • Graded unit tests for some classes 
  • Used triangulation – observations, conversations, and products – to evaluate student performance
  • Provided extra help to a struggling student. Created a learning plan for the student based on a diagnostic assessment of their mathematical knowledge and skills

Lead Teacher / Manager

National E-School

Toronto, ON, Canada

Remote Work

  • Hire and train new teachers to use our system and give quality feedback to students 
  • Manager and create processes to streamline course enrolment for new students 
  • Manager and create procedures and rules to help support teachers in their work 
  • Work to enhance the learning experience for students
  • Develop new initiatives to improve overall school experience for both teachers, students, and staff
  • Review course content to ensure all courses meet curriculum and ministry inspection standards  
  • Work closely with principal and other administrative staff on new marketing initiatives and directions to help promote our school’s reputation and generate revenue 

Practicum Placement 3
High School Mathematics & ESL Teacher Candidate

Westminster Secondary School

London, ON, Canada

  • Created detailed lesson plans and ppt for locally developed mathematics classes focusing on multilingual learners
  • Taught and ran various activities for a writing workshop class for students new to Canada
  • Assisted AT and other teachers in facilitating and running the Student Parliament and Robotics Club
  • Created and graded assignments targeting various curriculum points
  • Assisted AT in writing progress reports for students   

Practicum Placement 2
High School Mathematics & Physics Teacher Candidate

Virtual High School

Remote Work 

  • Graded assessments of learning and for learning for MCV4U and SPH3U 
  • Provided students with clear and helpful feedback to help them to address any misconceptions in their understanding 
  • Responded to student emails about course work and assessments to assist students as they worked their way through the online course
  • Worked with Associate Teacher to create detailed written solutions for students  

Practicum Placement 1
Grade 8 Classroom Teacher Candidate

Jack Chambers Public School 

London, ON, Canada

  • Taught grade 8 level science, financial literacy, and mathematics through coding in Python 
  • Developed lesson plan with summative assessment for new coding curriculum 
  • Taught and graded coding lesson and assessment for three grade 8 classrooms using Python and Google Classroom / Colaboratory
  • Attended and contributed to school meetings 
  • Covered yard and hallway duty with Associate Teacher 

Online Course Instructor
MHF4U - Gr. 12 Advanced Functions
MCV4U - Gr. 12 Calculus & Vectors
MCR3U - Gr. 11 Functions

City High School

Toronto, ON, Canada

Remote Work

  • Taught 2 hour flipped online class
    • 1 hour homework review & problems
    • 1 hour student self-study period
  • Responsible for ensuring that all Ontario Curriculum targets were met 
  • Created Unit & Lesson plans
  • Responsible for tracking student progress and success
  • Provided feedback to students on how to improve their learning by developing better work habits
  • Created engaging Kahoot! quizzes to help students review each unit

Course Developer / Presenter
MHF4U - Gr. 12 Advanced Functions
MCV4U - Gr. 12 Calculus & Vectors

National E-School

Toronto, ON, Canada

Remote Work

  • Reviewed and modified course content including; slide shows, assignments, and tests
  • Recorded lessons and uploaded videos to be edited into a complete lecture
  • Recorded iPad videos which demonstrated how to solve various problems in full detail

Foreign ESL Teacher

Best Learning Qingdao

Qingdao, SD, China

Shane English Yangzhou  

Yangzhou, JS, China

  • Prepared lesson plans based on school curriculum 
  • Taught English to students at the pre-school, kindergarten, elementary, and high school levels
  • Prepared and delivered classroom presentations to parents, which demonstrated the progress of my students
  • Participated in teacher meetings and team activities aimed at sharing ESL teaching ideas and strategies
  • Taught Gr. 5 Science and Math material from American textbooks to advanced ESL learners  

Power of Ideas Tour Team Member

Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics

Waterloo, ON, Canada

  • Traveled with a science and physics exhibit and presentation to high schools across southern Ontario 
  • Delivered 40 min. presentations on science and physics with group sizes varying from 15 – 300 students, teachers, and parents
  • Engaged with students in small groups and one-on-one in the exhibit, teaching them about modern physics and the process of science
  • Presented interactive physics demonstrations to engage and excite students about science, physics, and exploring the world around them

Graduate Teaching Assistant
Phil 1200 - Critical Thinking

The University of Western Ontario

London, ON, Canada

  • Prepared and presented original material for a one hour tutorial section of 25 students every week 
  • Held office hours and extra help sessions for students
  • Gave a guest lecture to the entire class of 127 students
  • Incorporated new technologies into my classroom by using the Kahoot platform for quizzes
  • Made use of various feedback strategies to help improve my teaching and to better learn how to meet my students learning needs
  • Was nominated for a teaching award

Co-founder / -President of the Physics Interconnected Mentorship Program

University of Waterloo

Waterloo, ON, Canada

  • Connected first year students in physics with upper year students to assist with their transition to university life
  • Given the sparse numbers of female studying physics, we made a conscious effort to include successful female students, grad students, and instructors in our program to help and support the new young women entering physics
  • Introduced students to professors to help breakdown barriers of intimidation between students and instructors
  • Collaborated with the Undergraduate Officer to provide training to our mentors about appropriate behaviour and various health and mental health resources available on campus

Undergraduate Student Representative
Nomination Committee for the Chair of the Physics Department

University of Waterloo

Waterloo, ON, Canada

  • Was nominated by faculty members and students for position
  • Worked along side staff, faculty, and graduate student representatives, as well as the Dean of Science to review and interview applicants
  • Was a full voting member on the committee 

Education, Certifications, and Awards & Scholarships

Education

Bachelor of Education

The University of Western Ontario, London, ON

STEM Specialization

Teachables: Senior Mathematics & Physics

Master of Philosophy

The University of Western Ontario, London, ON

Subject Area: Physics – time, cosmology, and mathematics

B. Sc. Honours Mathematical Physics, Astrophysics Specialization, Joint Honours German Studies, Philosophy Minor

University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON

Graduated with Honours 

Study Abroad Program

Universität Paderborn, Germany, NRW

DSH Language Courses 

Focus on learning German language, history, and culture

Study Abroad Program

Universität Mannheim, Germany, BW

Waterloo in Germany

Focus on learning German language, history, and culture

Certifications

OCT Certificate

Ontario College of Teachers

Good Standing, June 2023

Interim Professional Teaching Certificate

Alberta Education

July 2023

Certificate in University Teaching and Learning

Western Teaching Support Centre

Focuses on teaching competence, reflective teaching

practices, and academic competence

TESOL/TESL/TEFL Certificate

Oxford Seminars

60 hrs in class + 40 hrs online grammar course + 40 hrs 

specialization module in Teaching English to Children

Advanced Teaching Program Certificate

Western Teaching Support Centre

20 hr course focusing on practical teaching skills, course

design, active learning, authentic assessment strategies, and

maintaining a culture of respect and community in the

classroom

Awards & Scholarships

SSHRC Canadian Graduate Scholarship

The University of Western Ontario

Value: $17,500

Undergraduate Essay Prize in Philosophy: Gold Medal

University of Waterloo

Value: $750

Science Distinguished Alumni of Honour Award

University of Waterloo

Value: $1000 

Ambassador of Germany Prize

University of Waterloo

G.F. Atkinson Citizenship Award

University of Waterloo

Value: $250

University of Waterloo International Experience Award

University of Waterloo

Value: $1250

Faculty of Science Foundation Educational Travel Award

University of Waterloo

Value: $500

Ambassador of Switzerland Prize

University of Waterloo

Fred and Ruth Stork Award in German Studies

University of Waterloo

Value: $1500

University of Waterloo President's Scholarship

University of Waterloo

Value: $2000

Student Survey Data & Selected Comments

End of Class Student Survey Data (109 students)

Surveys conducted anonymously using a Google Form. Instructions given in form: Please rate your teacher by selecting a number below, where 10 is “excellent” and 1 is “poor.”

Teaching Award Nomination Email From HLPS Student

"I am nominating Mr. Roger Wilkinson for the Teacher/Administrator Merit Award because of his exceptional dedication and impact on the educational experience of his students. Mr. Wilkinson has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, creativity, and a commitment to fostering a positive learning environment. As my Mathematics and Physics teacher, Mr. Wilkinson has gone above and beyond in making these subjects accessible and engaging. His innovative teaching methods, including the integration of technology and real-world applications, have significantly enhanced our understanding and interest in these critical subjects. He introduced us to the language of Esperanto, providing a unique and enriching educational experience that has broadened our cultural and linguistic horizons. Mr. Wilkinson's ability to connect with students on a personal level is a testament to his dedication. He invests time in understanding each student's strengths and challenges, providing tailored support and encouragement. His approachability and willingness to offer extra help have not only built a strong rapport with his students but also fostered a supportive and inclusive classroom environment. Mr. Wilkinson's commitment to our school community extends beyond his teaching responsibilities. He actively participates in various school initiatives, playing a pivotal role in organizing events and activities that promote a sense of community among students, parents, and staff. His efforts have significantly contributed to the overall positive atmosphere within our school. Mr. Wilkinson's passion for education and his unwavering commitment to student success make him an exemplary educator and a deserving candidate for the FVSD Merit Award. His ability to inspire students, instil confidence in parents, and collaborate effectively with colleagues makes him an invaluable asset to our school and the wider FVSD community. I highly recommend Mr. Roger Wilkinson for this prestigious award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to education and his dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of his students."
Anonymous Student
High Level Public School
"Roger takes the time to learn more about his students and how they learn best. He then integrates appropriate strategies to meet their various learning needs. This includes a variety of both teaching and assessment strategies. Roger always incorporates new ways to make his lessons engaging and motivating for his students. He does this by using a combination of interactive websites, electronic devices, and hands on manipulatives. He also keeps students motivated by honuoring their voices and ideas and letting them share their work and ideas openly throughout the lesson."
Associate Teacher - Practicum 3
Westminster Secondary School
“Roger was truly knowledgeable with all subjects taught. He provided feedback and designed solutions in consideration of multiple learning styles within the capabilities of an online environment. He approached the topics from several viewpoints predicting where students might have trouble with their understanding and included notes, visual aids, and explanations to account for this. He also provided concrete real-world reasoning behind some of his explanations in his feedback, which surely engages students.”
Associate Teacher - Practicum 2
Virtual High School
“Roger consistently arrived at school early and prepared for the day's lessons. He had obviously researched Grade level expectations and created engaging, scaffolded lessons to achieve his goals. Roger always treated staff and students with respect and in a kind and caring manner. He also readily sought feedback from his Associate Teacher and quickly incorporated suggestions into his regular practice. When Roger ran into an issue with an access problem with the Colab program he sought out and worked closely with the principal to resolve the issue.”
Associate Teacher - Practicum 1
Jack Chambers Public School
“Roger Wilkinson is a wonderful teacher and colleague to work with in the classroom. He is professional and friendly. He is great with the students and knows when to be kind and when to be stern. He is respectful to his co-workers and students, and creates a safe and fun working, teaching, and learning environment.”
Teaching Assistant
Shane English Yangzhou
"Roger Wilkinson has proven himself to be a remarkably professional, dedicated, caring, and innovative future teacher. His ideas, planning, teaching, and conduct reflect the genuine character of an exemplary educator. During those times where we are thankful to return to the normal pace and schedule of teaching, Roger has shown to be someone to always bring innovative ideas and be readily adaptive to sudden changes whenever encountered. It was truly a pleasure to work with Roger for those 5 weeks and learn with and from him how to navigate a very new and innovative way of learning, teaching, and connecting with young learners."
Associate Teacher - Practicum 4
Westminster Secondary School
“During his time with our school, Roger has stood apart from other teachers with his professionalism, hard work, adaptability, patience and willingness to go above and beyond with his teaching and in making continuous improvements.”
Academic Manager
Shane English Yangzhou
“Despite classes only having started a month ago, it was obvious that Roger had already successfully built a positive relationship with his students. He welcomed each of them as they entered the room and knew them all by name. The students were attentive in class and eager to participate, showing that they respected Roger as a teaching figure. During exercises, Roger managed to engage the whole class in discussions, providing feedback to the students responses, but also sharing his own thoughts on the topic, thus enriching the students learning experience. Moreover, he incorporated the students opinions into his own teaching by referring back to their answers when appropriate. In this way, he managed to involve the whole class into the lecture and to keep discussions going.”
Peer Mentor
The University of Western Ontario, Teaching Mentor Program
“Very engaging. Explained concepts clearly and was available for further explanation if needed. His powerpoints were very concise and presented well. Love how he asked for feedback part way through the year. Muddiest point activity was very helpful.”
Anonymous Student
Phil 1200 - Critical Thinking

Teaching Award Nomination Letter

“I look forward to every tutorial that I have because Roger makes them so interesting. He has practice questions every week to help us practice our critical thinking skills so that we can perform better cognitively. He always listens to people’s questions and answers them even if the questions don’t seem to make sense. He also interprets our questions to see where we are not understanding things and he strives to help us understand. He always has his slides ready to go and is prepared to answer questions with verbal, visual, and kinesthetic examples and answers. He has a routine for each class and he makes it clear to us what we are going to work on every day. When the office hours that Roger had were not working for some people, he offered to move them and he even offered to schedule an extra time for us to come in to do exam review with him. Often after the lecture I am confused, but after each tutorial I feel like I know what I am doing and I feel confident. I used to do the quizzes before the tutorial and I would not get the results that I wanted, but I started doing the quizzes after the tutorial each week and my mark on them went up by about 20%. That’s a big difference and has had a large effect on my grade! If it weren’t for Roger’s teaching in the tutorial I would not have the mark that I have in Philosophy now. Roger also adds humour into his tutorials which keeps everyone paying attention and excited to learn and practice their skills. Roger is fair when it comes to attendance and he takes feedback from students at the end of class. He has had us write feedback cards for him on multiple occasions and then he goes through the information and formats his next tutorial based on what we ask him to do. It is very easy to tell that he is dedicated to what he does and he strives constantly to improve his teaching and help all of the students in our tutorial to the best of his ability. In class he also goes above and beyond and I am very thankful.”
Anonymous Student
Phil 1200 - Critical Thinking

Learn More

Download My Resume & Detailed Teacher Portfolio

My Full Teaching Portfolio Contains:

Evidence of Teaching Effectiveness

    • Numerical Data
    • Practicum Feedback 
    • Comments from Students
    • Professional & Peer Reference Letters
    • Teaching Award Nomination

Teaching Strategies 

    • Strategies in ESL Classrooms
    • Student Feedback Strategies

Professional Development 

    • Certifications & Programs
    • Conferences, Seminars, & Workshops

Resume Contains:

    • Education 
    • Work & Volunteer Experience 
    • Scholarships & Awards 
    • Certifications
    • Strengths 
    • Languages
    • Most Proud of
    • Study Abroad
    • Hobbies & Interests

"The finest qualities of our nature, like the bloom of fruits, can be preserved only by the most delicate handling. Yet we do not treat ourselves nor one another thus tenderly."

- Henry David Thoreau

Contact

rogerwilkinson@hotmail.com