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Asked by darakenna to Cathal on 12 Nov 2013.
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Cathal Cummins answered on 12 Nov 2013:
It is very important. I had a really bad teacher in school at one time who never let me do maths the way I wanted to do it — it was always their way or no way. As a result, I did not do very well in maths in school: nearly failing a few times. Then, when I had perfected my own way of doing things I started doing well and got bumped up to another class who had a much better teacher — this was half way through second year. This new teacher let me do things the way I wanted and I went from almost failing to getting an almost perfect score in my Junior Certificate!
When my first piece of science got published I sent my copy to my old secondary school maths teacher and just thanked him, telling him that it was he who made this possible. This is my own personal story, so for me, it is very important but it also takes work — but if you have the passion for science or maths you will do it!
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Comments
Michael commented on :
If I may make a contribution here…
It is really important to have a teacher who sees and nurtures your interest. I had that with a maths and chemistry teacher where I was top of the class in both. I had a physics teacher who didnt like me and I struggled in his class, but still got an A2, but it was much more hard work than it should have been. A very discernable difference between these teachers make the two experiences very different and almost put me off physics.
At university, good lecturers are also vital, but that is more difficult as you do not have the same contact you have with a school teacher. I would say if you like someone’s course, go contact them and get to know them – it could lead to a good postgraduate course and a career in science.
Sive commented on :
Hi Dara,
I agree with Michael and Cahill that great teachers can really inspire you and help you to find your interests. I’d also add that if you like a subject but don’t have a great teacher it’s really important not to let that put you off following your interests. Sometime’s it’s tricky to separate your interest in a subject from how much you like the relevant teacher. Good teachers can definitely inspire but not so good teachers shouldn’t deter you from following your interest!
Sive
Emma commented on :
Hey Dara, Great teachers are important yep but at the same time if something interests you (not just science) get googling! talk to anyone who will listen and read whatever you can. Teaching is important but learning can be something you do for yourself too.
I know I’ve had some of the most interesting conversations about science with non-scientists who just watch good documentaires or read articles etc.. So in short dont depend just on teachers they have a lot on their plate, try and find out for yourself then you can always check back with them about what you find out! Its more interesting that way too.
Emma