2023 Medal Winners | francais

The 2023 CAP Award for Excellence in Teaching High School/CEGEP Physics (Prairies and Northwest Territories)

is awarded to

Ian Doktor

"Being selected for the CAP High School award is both humbling and inspiring. Teaching physics is more than a job or a calling; it's a responsibility to help students become scientifically literate so they can create a better future. The CAP high school award recognizes the importance of that endeavour." winner citation

The Canadian Association of Physicists (CAP) is pleased to announce that the 2023 CAP Award for Excellence in Teaching High School/CEGEP Physics (Prairies and Northwest Territories) is awarded to Ian Doktor, Jasper Place High School, in recognition of his passion and dedication in teaching physics, particularly for his involvement of students in the design and implementation of astronomy projects and for the care and enthusiasm in his teaching that inspires students to continue in physics. announcement

Ian Doktor has had a twenty-year career in education, most recently for about a decade in Alberta. Prior to that he taught in Hong Kong, Japan, and Vancouver. His passion for teaching has led him to conduct studies on innovations in science teaching at the University of Alberta at the doctoral level. He continues to benefit his students by innovative projects and curriculum development at Jasper Place High School. His development of new curriculum has allowed thousands of students to study the exciting field of astronomy for credit. His many ways to engage students have included study of an unusual variable star that were published in a scientific journal, cameras scanning the skies at night, and three-dimensional printed precision instruments for studying light. His teaching style involves challenging students by asking interesting questions and giving guidance as to how they might be answered. Some of these come from daily life, which makes the study of science more engaging. Some of them come from astronomy, which has its own fascination although requiring instruments to study. In turn, the construction of these instruments or tools becomes a stimulating activity with a purpose that engages students. His own enthusiasm makes him carry out challenging activities in astronomy, with notable accomplishments in astrophotography, but also in such a way that students can be engaged. Results are presented on exemplary webpages, with student accomplishments prominently and proudly displayed. His efforts have gone beyond working with students, since he has taken a leadership role in the Alberta Teachers Association Science Council, not only administratively as President, but also giving workshops that help his fellow teachers learn his techniques and absorb his enthusiasm. nominator citation

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