My Teaching Philosophy
Self-motivation is not innate; it must be learned. Only when an individual has mastered the ability to be self-motivated will he be prepared to learn as much as he can during his journey through life as a “life-long learner”. In order to be successful in the emerging global society of today and tomorrow, every individual will need to be a “life-long learner”.
Based on this view, I believe that teachers are merely more educated, more knowledgeable, more experienced learners who are willing to impart knowledge, share educational experiences, act as guides toward learning, and be the authority on certain subjects when circumstances deem it appropriate.
Because each individual has his own learning style – be it based on hearing, seeing, doing, or a combination of the three. A teacher must be flexible and willing to accommodate the learning styles of others in order to reach the most students possible.
A teacher should be well versed on a variety of subjects in addition to the core subject he is teaching. In that way, he can better relate to and advise the student on a pathway that maximizes the student’s best interests, rather than merely encouraging or requiring the student simply to follow in the footsteps of the teacher.
In summation, the best interests of the student should be the primary concern of the teacher. The teacher should be able to focus on the big picture and go beyond what is being required of the student now to what will be required of the student in life.
Teaching Honors and Awards
“We Love Your Class” Award (2008 & 2014)
presented by Missouri University of Science and Technology’s Freshman Engineering Program
National Residence Hall Honorary’s Institution Faculty/Staff Member of the Year Award(2012-2013)
For outstanding efforts in the residence halls of Missouri University of Science & Technology
Thomas Jefferson Hall Association Faculty/Staff of the Year Award (2012-2013)
Tappmeyer Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award(2008-2009 & 2017-2018)
presented by Missouri University of Science and Technology Chemistry Department
New Faculty Teaching Scholars, Missouri University of Science and Technology (2007-2008)
Missouri Junior Classical League Outstanding Service Award (2005)
National Honor Society Most Influential Teacher Award (2003 & 2006)
Courses Taught
[Chem 1319: General Chemistry Laboratory]
The laboratory work accompanying general chemistry consists of experiments designed to supplement lectures in Chem 1310. In this course, we foster an understanding of general chemistry laboratory skills and corresponding safety practices.
- Semester taught: [FS06-SP16]
[Chem 2219: Organic Chemistry I Laboratory ]
Laboratory involves purification techniques, simple and multistep synthesis and spectroscopic identification of organic functional groups. In this course, we focus on safe handling of organic chemicals and proper laboratory procedures.
- Semester taught: [FS16-SP21]
[Chem 2229: Organic Chemistry II Laboratory ]
Continuation of Organic 2219. Laboratory involves purification techniques, simple and multistep synthesis and spectroscopic identification of organic functional groups. In this course, we focus on safe handling of organic chemicals and proper laboratory procedures.
(Continue with additional courses as needed)
- Semester taught: [FS16-SP21]
Teaching Methods and Approaches
I employ a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles. I believe laboratory courses are an excellent way to offer a hands-on approach to chemistry and how to derive the relevant mathematical equations. I incorporate real-world examples and case studies wherever possible.
Student Engagement
I encourage student engagement through active participation and interactive experiments. I also offer office hours by appointment and am always open to questions and discussions outside of class time.
Office Hours
I hold office hours on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 11am – 1pm. Appointments can be scheduled via email: bolonc@mst.edu.
Professional Development
I am dedicated to continuous professional growth and regularly attend workshops and seminars on teaching innovations and pedagogy. I recently completed the ACUE Effective Online Teaching Course and am certified through May 1, 2026.
Certificate in Effective College Instruction –
THE ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY EDUCATORS AND THE AMERICAN COUNCIL ON EDUCATION (ACUE) – Effective Date: 5/1/2021 to 5/1/2026
Resources for Students
Please refer to these resources to supplement your learning:
- Curtis Laws Wilson Library – https://library.mst.edu/
- Scifinder Scholar (Best for chemistry, biology, and materials science. Before using SciFinder Scholar, you must register an account.) – https://libguides.mst.edu/az.php
- Journal of Chemical Education (Missouri S&T subscription) – http://browzine.com/libraries/5/journals/497/issues/current
Contact
Feel free to reach out to me at bolonc@mst.edu or during my office hours for any questions or clarifications. My office is in 213 Schrenk Hall.