In a compelling interview, veteran chemistry and forensics teacher Brittany Shields shares insights into her evolving teaching methods and the innovative ways she brings science to life in the classroom. Drawing from years of experience, including a background in law enforcement, Shields has developed a teaching style that combines rigorous scientific instruction with engaging, hands-on learning experiences.
At the heart of Shields’ approach is a commitment to creating an inclusive classroom environment where students feel valued and supported. “I build a sense of belonging by taking pictures of my students working in pairs or on lab activities and displaying them on a classroom collage board,” she explains. This attention to classroom culture, combined with her energetic teaching style – which sometimes includes clapping, shouting, or jumping to capture students’ attention – helps break down barriers to learning.
To make complex chemistry concepts accessible, Shields employs a carefully scaffolded approach. “The brain has a limited capacity for working memory, so breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps is essential,” she notes. For instance, when teaching stoichiometry (a section of chemistry that involves using relationships between reactants and/or products in a chemical reaction to determine desired quantitative data), she builds on prior knowledge, connecting new concepts to foundational skills students have already mastered.
Technology plays a vital role in bringing scientific concepts to life. “In the boiling and freezing point lab, we use probes that provide real-time data and allow students to observe temperature changes with precision on the graphical analysis software on their laptops,” Shields explains. These tools, along with online resources like YouTube videos and interactive simulations, help students visualize and understand complex chemical processes. She also incorporates storytelling to make abstract concepts more relatable, sharing personal experiences like using micellar water in skincare to explain molecular interactions.
As she transitioned from a career in policing to teaching, Shields brought what she knew best—policework—into the classroom. “I designed a trimester-long forensic science course that bridges the gap between science, math, and law, making the subject both engaging and interdisciplinary,” she said. In her forensics curriculum, Shields leverages her law enforcement background to create authentic learning experiences. “Students take on the role of crime scene investigators,” she describes, where they apply scientific principles to real-world scenarios. In the pathology lab, students participated in a comprehensive pig dissection after attending a virtual session with a pathologist. “Students were highly engaged, crowding around and eagerly participating. The combination of pre-exposure to material, detailed resources, and hands-on learning made this experience both educational and memorable.” From analyzing blood spatter patterns using trigonometry to conducting pig dissections for pathology studies, students engage with science in meaningful ways.
Critical thinking is emphasized throughout her courses. Rather than providing answers, Shields guides students through inquiry-based learning. For example, in solubility labs, students investigate ion interactions themselves, collecting data and developing their own understanding of solubility rules. This approach not only strengthens analytical skills but also builds confidence in applying the scientific method.
Environmental and social issues are woven into the curriculum to demonstrate science’s relevance. Discussions about greenhouse gases, the ozone layer, and water contamination help students understand chemistry’s role in addressing global challenges. “Students are encouraged to brainstorm actionable ideas for reducing carbon emissions in their daily lives, making the concept both relevant and practical.” In forensics, students explore how scientific advances have impacted justice through cases involving DNA evidence and wrongful convictions.
For educators seeking to develop their own teaching style, Shields emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptability. “Take ownership of your professional development,” she advises, encouraging teachers to seek out opportunities that align with their goals while remaining responsive to student needs. “The Center for Transformative Teaching & Learning has consistently supported and encouraged my growth as an educator, empowering me to try new approaches in the classroom,” she said. “They have been there to guide me, and their support has had a profound impact on my confidence and teaching practices.”
Shields went on to credit the Teaching All Kinds of Minds curriculum and the Education Fest events held on the campus of St. Andrew’s Episcopal School in Potomac, Maryland for helping her gain a deeper understanding of how students learn and how to meet their diverse needs. “These experiences have provided me with the tools and knowledge to continually improve my teaching for the benefit of my students.”
Through her innovative teaching methods and dedication to student engagement, Shields exemplifies how science education can be both challenging and engaging, preparing students not just for academic success but for real-world application of scientific principles.
