Neena Grover | Embracing collaborations: Loving what we do and doing what we love

The joy of teaching lies not only in helping students surpass their own expectations but in the collaborative process that makes learning a shared journey. In my approach, fostering a love for science and learning happens through meaningful collaboration—with students, colleagues, and the broader academic community. I believe that when we embrace collaboration, we empower students to actively engage with material, rediscover their scientific curiosity, and take ownership of their learning. By creating discussion-based classrooms and utilizing evidence-based pedagogies, I work alongside students to foster inquiry and critical thinking, helping them develop the skills to ask insightful questions and seek meaningful answers. Incorporating my own research into the classroom enriches this process, bringing real-world insights and cutting-edge developments into our discussions. This not only keeps students connected to the latest in the field but also demonstrates the dynamic relationship between teaching and research. Collaboration with peers further enhances my teaching by enabling me to share ideas, refine methods, and experiment with new approaches. While challenges such as administrative pressures and discipline-specific cultures can pose obstacles, our commitment to supporting one another’s growth—through both successes and setbacks—strengthens the teaching community as a whole. This collaborative mindset not only enhances student engagement and critical thinking but also fosters a deeper love for the work we do and a shared passion for teaching and learning that transforms the classroom experience. A good teacher, by necessity, is also a good researcher—constantly questioning, experimenting, and refining their approach to foster an environment of collaborative inquiry and growth.