Testimonial from Yevgeny Pevzner
In the ever-evolving landscape of science education, finding resources that engage and deepen students’ understanding is essential. Yevgeny Pevzner, a 7th grade science teacher at Kearns Junior High, is a passionate educator who believes science should be an active process of discovery. Dedicated to fostering curiosity and critical thinking, Yevgeny uses Research Quest to create hands-on learning experiences that allow students to approach science like true investigators.
Making Science Meaningful: Real-World Connections with Research Quest
Yevgeny highlights What’s Killing These Trees? as one of the most effective activities in Research Quest.
In an age where students are surrounded by technology, it can be difficult to help them see how science applies to the real world. He describes it as “Overall, What’s Killing These Trees? is a great example of how Research Quest lessons are easy, fun, and interactive while still building important skills. It helps students see that science is about curiosity, asking questions, and using evidence to discover answers.” Research Quest has become an invaluable asset in his classroom, using investigations as an extension to his lessons.
Fostering a Love for Learning
One of the strengths of What’s Killing These Trees? is its engaging design.
“In this lesson, students investigate why a group of trees is dying by looking at evidence, data, and different explanations. The activity feels like a mystery that students get to solve, which makes learning both exciting and meaningful. This activity is not only fun but also encourages critical thinking and problem-solving.”
This structure encourages deeper understanding and helps students connect what they are observing to broader scientific concepts. It’s particularly effective in allowing students to apply knowledge in new situations, strengthening both critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Transforming Learning Experiences: How Research Quest Turns Students into Curious, Evidence-Based Thinkers
Yevgeny emphasizes that Research Quest’s approach not only develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills but also fosters confidence and curiosity, helping learners see themselves as scientists exploring the world around them. "Students analyze patterns, test ideas, and carefully consider the evidence before making conclusions. At the same time, it is designed so that students can move at their own pace, making it easy for everyone to participate and experience success."
Conclusion: Inspiring Students through Virtual Education
Yevgeny’s experience with Research Quest demonstrates how virtual, interactive investigations can transform the classroom into a space of curiosity and discovery. Yevgeny notes, “ it is easy to use, fun, and connects directly to real-world science”. Yevgeny’s classroom exemplifies how thoughtfully designed virtual resources can inspire a love of learning and help students become confident, evidence-based thinkers ready to explore the world around them. “It helps students see that science is about curiosity, asking questions, and using evidence to discover answers.”
Research Quest is a program of the Natural History Museum of Utah in partnership with The Utah Education Network
