EWC Biology Instructor Receives Master Distance Educator Award
May 8, 2008
TORRINGTON, WY -
Tina Christinck, Eastern Wyoming College biology instructor, has been named a recipient of the Master Distance Educator award for 2008 by the Wyoming Distance Education Consortium (WyDEC). One recipient is named at each community college and the University of Wyoming each year.
In Christinck's nomination for the award, Dee Ludwig, vice president of institutional effectiveness, and Peggy Knittel, veterinary technology instructor wrote: "Talk about jumping into the fire!" Tina did just that when she was hired. She taught a full-time teaching load and developed two online science courses in her first semester. Tina teaches general biology and discovering science online, in addition to her regular classroom and advising duties.
She has written numerous laboratory assignments which use household materials, so students can get the real experience of biology labs...she frequently has at least 20 students in her sections and has been known to override the limit.
"In addition, she cares about the students and follows up closely with them to ensure that they understand the assignments and the labs. If she hasn't heard from a student in a while, she e-mails or calls them, just to touch base," added Ludwig and Knittel.
Tina also served as a proactive member of the college's Distance Learning Committee on-campus and is a supporter of all distance learning efforts. Tina also supports other campus activities, such as holding sessions for 6th graders when they visit for College for a Day. Her 'Strawberry DNA` hands-on sessions are a big hit with these young scientists.
"Tina's love of her profession and love of teaching is evident in everything she does at the college," added Ludwig.
Christinck began teaching at EWC in the fall of 2005. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in biology and chemistry, and Master of Education in biology education from Northwestern Oklahoma State University. Prior to coming to EWC, she taught at Barton County Community College, the Community College of Denver, and several high schools.
Christinck will receive her award at the WyDEC conference May 19-21 at Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne.
