Samir Abukhodair

Educator, Consultant, and Facilitator

Teaching Portfolio

I am an experienced educator with a background in engineering, tech, entrepreneurship and a passion for student-centered, inquiry-based learning. My teaching philosophy is rooted in compassion, engagement, and real-world problem-solving. Through Creatures of Learning, I aim to provide innovative education strategies that foster critical thinking, self-sufficiency, and cultural awareness in students.

Table of Contents

Professional Experience & Resume

  • Experience in STEM education, classroom management, and differentiated instruction

  • Founder of Creatures of Learning, focused on innovative teaching methodologies

  • Former engineer turned educator, leveraging hands-on learning in the classroom

Teaching Philosophy

My approach to classroom management is rooted in inquiry-based learning, democratic engagement, and positive reinforcement.

  • Inquiry-Based Learning: Encouraging students to engage with course material through critical thinking and exploration rather than rote memorization.

  • Democratic Classroom: Establishing a student-led environment where rules are collaboratively developed, fostering accountability and respect.

  • Compassion & Engagement: Creating a supportive classroom where students feel safe to learn from failure and use challenges as opportunities for growth.

Classroom Management

My approach to classroom management is rooted in inquiry-based learning, democratic engagement, and positive reinforcement.

  • Inquiry-Based Learning: Encouraging students to engage with course material through critical thinking and exploration rather than rote memorization.

  • Democratic Classroom: Establishing a student-led environment where rules are collaboratively developed, fostering accountability and respect.

  • Compassion & Engagement: Creating a supportive classroom where students feel safe to learn from failure and use challenges as opportunities for growth.

Year Long Curriculum - Physics

I created a program grounded in hands-on learning, conceptual understanding, and real-world application. This curriculum supports student growth through inquiry, collaborative exploration, and scaffolded skill development, aligning with both Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Montessori-aligned pedagogies. Each month builds on prior knowledge, using interdisciplinary connections and student-centered projects to deepen engagement and critical thinking.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Full-Year Scope & Sequence from September to June

  • Emphasis on inquiry-based investigations and lab activities

  • Integration of data analysis, graphing, and modeling

  • Units include Motion, Forces, Energy, Waves, Electricity, and Modern Physics

  • Built-in formative assessments and reflections for student growth tracking

  • Project-based learning opportunities each term

  • Real-world tie-ins to sustainability, engineering, and technology

  • Differentiation strategies for varied learners, including visuals, simulations, and choice-based assignments

Research & Publications

Localized Cultural Impacts on Student Development in STEM

This research explores how regional cultural norms influence students’ engagement and success in STEM education. The study examines both qualitative and quantitative data to understand how integrating local cultural values into STEM curricula can improve student learning outcomes.

  • Key Research Question: How do cultural norms shape students’ experiences and performance in STEM subjects?

  • Findings: Positive correlation between culturally integrated teaching methods and higher student engagement.

Intro to Cultural Differences

A reflection on my personal experiences growing up in a multicultural environment, analyzing how cultural awareness shapes learning, interaction, and educational structures.

Key Insights: Understanding "We" vs. "Me" cultures in education, adapting teaching strategies to diverse student backgrounds.

Case Studies & Reflections

Weekly Journal Reflections

Throughout my teaching experience, I have documented weekly reflections on classroom strategies, student engagement, and instructional improvements. These insights provide a real-world look at effective teaching techniques and their impact.

Implementing Inquiry-Based Learning in a High School Physics Class

Addressing Classroom Management Through Positive Reinforcement

Differentiating Instruction for Varied Learning Styles

Future Updates

This portfolio will continue to evolve as I integrate new case studies, lesson plans, and teaching experiences. Stay tuned for updates on student-centered learning, culturally responsive teaching, and educational innovations through Creatures of Learning.