Teacher Ivan talks technology, project-based learning, and his love of teaching.
“The students at GGAST are exceptional and are the heart of our school. Their eagerness to learn is not only infectious but also incredibly inspiring. It's a joy to see their curiosity blossom, and it's this enthusiasm that makes teaching at GGAST so rewarding.” Teacher Ivan
Teacher Mubiru Ivan has taught physics at Gashora Girls Academy for only two years but has already had a huge impact on campus. After his first year, he was awarded Teacher of the Year at the 2023 graduation!
With a passion for music and sports, Teacher Ivan also mentors the Art Revolutionary Club, the school football (soccer) team, and is the Christian community coordinator.
What is your favorite part of your job?
There's something incredibly rewarding about seeing a student's face light up when a complex physics concept finally clicks. That moment of understanding, that spark of curiosity – it's pure magic! I love being part of a school that fosters a love for learning. By guiding students through problem-based learning and using technology to create an engaging environment, I know I'm helping them develop the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the future.
What do you feel makes GGAST unique and special?
GGAST is not just a school; it's a community that fosters a dynamic and enriching environment for students and teachers.
The staff and administration are not just colleagues but a supportive community. It's a collaborative environment where everyone is invested in your success, supporting you to grow personally and professionally, making GGAST a truly unique and special place to work.
The students at GGAST are exceptional and are the heart of our school. Their eagerness to learn is not only infectious but also incredibly inspiring. Seeing their curiosity blossom is a joy, and this enthusiasm makes teaching at GGAST so rewarding.
GGAST also provides top-class facilities that enhance the learning experience. The technology resources available have made teaching more engaging and prepared our students for the digital world.
Why do you feel integrating technology into the classroom is important? How does technology support your teaching and students' learning?
Technology injects excitement and interactivity into lessons. Tech is a game-changer in my physics class! It helps me make lessons more engaging with simulations and visualizations. Imagine using virtual reality simulations to explore radioactive decay in a physics class or creating educational games to reinforce math concepts. Many advanced physics concepts are abstract and difficult to visualize, and interactive simulations and experiments can be quite expensive and limited by equipment. Technology opens the door to virtual labs and bridges the gap. These tools capture students' attention, allowing them to develop essential digital skills and making learning more engaging and enjoyable.
Technology is not just a tool for the present but a preparation for the future. It's a catalyst for fostering collaboration and communication skills crucial for success in the 21st century. Students can work together on projects in real-time using online platforms and share ideas through digital presentations. These collaborative experiences, facilitated by technology, prepare students for a world that increasingly relies on teamwork and effective communication, instilling in them a sense of confidence and optimism for their future Physics presentations.
Technology is a versatile tool that caters to diverse learning styles. Whether a student struggles with traditional text-based learning or is an advanced learner, technology provides the necessary resources. Students can benefit from video lectures, audio recordings, or interactive simulations, and advanced learners can delve deeper with online resources and independent projects. Technology’s adaptability allows teachers to tailor lessons to individual needs, ensuring everyone feels understood and accommodated.
Gashora Girls Academy believes in problem-based learning, a student-centered approach where students learn through the experience of solving a problem. Why is this important?
I've transitioned from a "sage on the stage" to a "guide on the side." Project-based learning flips the script from passive listening to active engagement.
I strive to incorporate real-world problems into my physics lessons, fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
By actively seeking solutions, students gain a deeper understanding of core concepts and how they interweave in the real world. This makes learning relevant and engaging and helps students see the practical applications of physics concepts.
What advice do you give your students?
Physics can be tough, but don't shy away from the challenge! Physics isn't just about equations and formulas, but understanding the universe and how it works. The most rewarding things in life often come from pushing yourself outside your comfort zone. Embrace the struggle, ask questions, and never give up on your curiosity. When you find the fun, learning becomes an exciting adventure!
Cultivate a lifelong love of learning. Read, explore, ask questions, and never stop seeking knowledge. The more you learn, the more you'll discover the incredible world around you.
Who has been your greatest inspiration?
Picking a single greatest inspiration is tough, but there's no question my dad has been a guiding light throughout my life.
He wasn't a physics teacher, but his approach to problem-solving and his never-give-up attitude have always resonated with me. Whether it was tackling a complex home improvement project or facing a personal challenge, he always approached things with a calm determination and a willingness to learn. He instilled in me the importance of perseverance, critical thinking, and finding creative solutions – all skills that are incredibly valuable in physics and beyond. His unwavering support and belief in my abilities have been a constant source of motivation, and I wouldn't be the teacher I am today without him.
