Dr. David Blades - Professor of Science Education/Curriculum Studies

CurioCity Careers
3 October 2017

Dr. David Blades

Professor of Science Education/Curriculum Studies

I was born/grew up in: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

I now live in: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

I completed my training/education at: At the University of Victoria and University of Alberta

Describe what you do at work.

I teach new teachers how to be a teacher! In this role, I educate the next generation of STEM teachers. I also examine trends and issues in science education and the curriculum of these trends, including STEM. I tend to be a critic of STEM and challenge the assumptions of this acronym. I also study the role of aesthetics in helping new teachers understand the nature of science.

When I was a student I enjoyed:

How does your job affect people’s lives?

I hope to inspire new teachers to be GREAT teachers--the children in our schools deserve the best! A very fulfilling experience was having my grandchildren being taught by new teachers than had been in my classes.

What motivates you in your career?

Understanding the broader picture of curriculum trends and then helping governments see the "big picture." I also love creating new courses, lessons and curriculum with agencies. I am most motivated by the changes in my students as they realize a greater view of their role as science educators and scholars.

When I was a student, I would have described myself as someone who:

Describe your career path to this career.

To become a university professor is a LONG road. I was a high school teacher for 10 years, completing a Masters degree in curriculum during that time. Then I spend 4 years completing a doctorate (with little income except for scholarships). My first academic position was at the University of Saskatchewan, then the University of Alberta as an Associate Professor, and now at the University of Victoria as a full professor. I never, ever dreamed any of this while in high school.

What activities do you like to do outside of work?

I'm a semi-professional guitar player and enjoy boating and woodwork. I also volunteer for the Jewish Federation of Victoria--this year serving as President. I bike regularly.

What advice or encouragement would you give others seeking a similar career?

Follow your passion and don't worry about the income!

Let’s Talk Science recognizes and thanks Dr. David Blades for his contribution to Canada 2067.

CurioCity Careers

We hope you enjoyed learning about this great STEM career! The information in this career profile was provided by this individual especially for CurioCity. We hope it helped give you a sense of what this type of job is really like.

Let’s Talk Science is pleased to provide you with this information as you explore future career options. Many careers require a background in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Even jobs that don’t use specific STEM concepts on a day-to-day basis benefit from the skills gained through a study of STEM. People with a STEM background are very much in demand by employers across all career sectors. If you would like to learn about more careers that have a STEM connection, visit http://www.explorecuriocity.org/careers.



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