Michael Kauffmann
Education
- Teaching Credential, Preliminary Ryan Single Subject Credential in Biology and General Science with AB 1059 English Learner Content and supplementary authorization in Chemistry and Introductory Math, Humboldt State University, 2003
- Teaching Credential, Professional Clear Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, Humboldt State University, 2004
- Bachelors of Science in Biology with Chemistry Minor, Virginia Tech, May, 1996
Employment
- Fortuna Union Elementary School District Math Specialist (2009-present)
- Pedagogy Specialist, Redwood Science Project, Humboldt State University (Sept. 2009-present)
- Author/Photographer (2005- present)
- Graphic Designer at Backcountry Press (2011-Present)
- Seventh Grade Math and Science ~ Fifth Grade Multiple Subjects Teacher,
Fortuna Middle School, Fortuna, CA (Sept. 2004-June 2009) - Naturalist, Los Angeles County Outdoor Science School, Wrightwood, CA (Sept. 1997-Dec. 2002)
Courses Taught:
Science 431: The Nature and Practice of Science for Elementary Education
During this course, students explore the nature and practice of science, including an examination of relationships among the various fields of science. Central to this course is the exploration and discussion of the construction of knowledge and the process by which scientific claims are tested and validated. Through reading and discussion, the development of scientific thought, especially regarding explanations for natural phenomena, is explored including the contributions of men and women, western and non-western perspectives, and alternative points of view. Mathematical reasoning and the construction of scientific models are used as tools for understanding ideas in science and to conduct scientific inquiry. Students engage in their own process of formulating testable questions in science, developing study/experimental designs, and drawing conclusions from their results.
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In SCI 431 we address misconception in science (like phases of the moon), and address how we can achieve a better understanding of these misconceptions—both for us and our future students |
To provide a context for achieving the goals above, the course focuses on several major themes. The first is a perspective on the dynamic systems on planet Earth and how those relate to issues surrounding global change. Here the content focuses on meteorology, botany, and climate change. The second theme will focus on a brief history of time-keeping and notions of time and will include a content focus on planetary motion, phases of the moon, the seasons, and latitude & longitude. As these two themes are explored, students will be developing and executing plans for individual research projects.
Publications:
- Kauffmann, Michael. 2012. Conifer Country. Backcountry Press. Kneeland, California.
- Adams, R. P. R. Lanner, M. Kauffmann and D. Thornburg. 2011. "Taxonomy of infraspecific taxa of Abies concolor: Leaf essential oils of Abies concolor, var. concolor andvar. lowiana" Phytologia 93(2): 208-220. (PDF)
- Adams, R. P., R. Lanner, M. Kauffmann and D. Thornburg. 2011. " Taxonomy of infraspecific taxa of Abies concolor based on DNA sequences from nrDNA and four chloroplast regions." Phytologia 93(2): 221-230. (PDF)
- Adams, R. P. and M. E. Kaufmann. 2010." Geographic variation in the leaf essential oils of Juniperus grandis and comparison with J. occidentalis and J. osteosperma." Phytologia 92(2):167-185. (PDF)
- Adams, R. P. and M. E. Kauffmann. 2010. "Geographic variation in nrDNA and cp DNA of Juniperus californica, J. grandis, J. occidentalis and J. osteosperma (Cupressaceae)." Phytologia 92(2):266-276. (PDF)