Teaching
Creating Inclusive Environments Where All Students Can Thrive
Teaching Outlook
The heart of effective teaching lies in the ability to inspire, connect, and evolve. I believe a good teacher is a lifelong learner—adapting and growing alongside students. Every classroom interaction presents an opportunity to exchange knowledge and perspectives, creating a dynamic learning environment where students actively engage rather than passively absorb information.
My teaching philosophy is grounded in three core principles:
Student-Centered Learning
I create environments where students feel empowered to ask questions, share ideas, and take ownership of their learning. No question is trivial—every inquiry is an opportunity for discovery.
Inclusive & Accessible Design
Drawing on Universal Design for Learning principles, I incorporate multiple modes of content delivery—visual, verbal, and experiential—to support diverse learning needs.
Active Engagement
I use interactive teaching methods including think-pair-share, case studies, real-world applications, and hands-on laboratory experiences to make complex concepts engaging.
Teaching Experience
Biology Instructor, Acadia University (2025-2026)
BIOL 1123: Organisms and Their Environment II
- Course instructor for 170 first-year students
- Topics: Evolution, DNA replication and transcription, molecular techniques, evolutionary biology
- Redesigned course using clear learning outcomes and interactive pedagogical methods
- Work closely with Accessible Learning Services to accommodate diverse needs
BIOL 2010: Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory
- Lab instructor for 120 second-year students across 5 lab sections
- Redesigned and delivered hands-on experiments in molecular biology techniques
- Developed complete lab syllabus with emphasis on experimental design
2024-2025
BIOL 2600: Ecology | Carleton University
Developed and delivered three 90-minute lectures: "Aquatic Ecology," "Ecological Disturbances," and "Ecosystem Management" using BOPPPS lesson planning framework.
Student feedback: "It was engaging and felt like it could be a big conversation"
2024
GRY 351: Sustainable Management of Natural Resources | Carleton University
Delivered virtual seminar on "Mountain Pine Beetle and Its Effect on Canadian Forests," integrating recent research findings with management strategies.
2022-2023
BIOL 2001: Animals: Form and Function | Carleton University
Developed lecture on "Molluscs" for 200 students, delivered both virtually and in-person.
2019
Ecophysiology of Aquatic Organisms | University of Rostock
Delivered interactinve lecture on "Energy Metabolism" for 30 graduate students, in-person.
Teaching Approach
Interactive Learning
I design my courses to maximize student engagement through:
- Interactive Quizzes: Real-time polling and quiz questions maintain attention and assess understanding throughout lectures
- Think-Pair-Share: Students first contemplate individually, then discuss with peers, before sharing with the class
- Case Studies: Real-world scenarios help students apply concepts to authentic situations
- Visual Aids: Props, demonstrations, and visual examples make abstract concepts concrete and memorable
- Group Discussions: Small group work allows students to learn from peers and identify areas where they need support
Accessibility & Universal Design
I design teaching materials keeping accessibility in mind:
- Multiple modes of content delivery (visual, verbal, experiential)
- Lab materials provided in advance in both written and visual formats
- Close collaboration with Accessibility Services to accommodate diverse needs
- Visual cues and real-world examples to support understanding
- Flexible assessment options when appropriate
Student-Centered Assessment
- Formative Assessment: Regular low-stakes quizzes provide feedback without pressure
- Early Course Feedback: I solicit student input mid-semester to adjust teaching approaches in real-time
- Clear Expectations: Detailed rubrics and learning outcomes help students understand goals
- Scaffolded Learning: Complex skills are built progressively through the semester
Student Feedback
"Dr. Haider's jokes are funny"
"The wooclaps, question-answer during lecture"
"Interactive and memorable"
"It was engaging and felt like it could be a big conversation"
"Creating safe environment to learn and ask questions"
