Clark Coffman, an associate professor in the Department of Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, received the Outstanding Achievement in Teaching Award from the Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences on March 9.

Coffman began teaching at Iowa State in 1998 and is dedicated to helping students develop critical and creative thinking skills.

Coffman said, “The greatest reward that I receive as a teacher is seeing students learn. I am convinced that every student can learn if provided with an appropriate opportunity.

“Fortunately, I have been able to work with colleagues in the School of Education, the Department of Psychology, and the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering to create inclusive classrooms that allow diverse student populations to learn. We have been able to test hypotheses about student learning and motivation, applying what we have learned in our classrooms. Knowledge needs to be shared, and I have also had opportunities to share what we have learned with colleagues here at Iowa State, at national meetings focused on biology education, at invited seminars, and via web-based modes of interaction. It is exciting to see change happening in science education.”

Read CALS news release for a complete listing of faculty and staff award recipients.