معرفی
Michael Bechtel is an Associate Professor of Science Education at Wartburg College, Iowa. With over 19 years of teaching experience across PK-12 schools, community colleges, and universities in Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, he specializes in integrating STEAM disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Mathematics) with innovative educational practices. Holding Director of Curriculum, Principal, and Superintendent certifications, his work bridges pedagogical theory with practical classroom applications.
- Education: B.A. from Wartburg College (1994), M.Ed. from University of Wisconsin (2007), and Ed.D. from Edgewood College (2012)
Bechtel's research focuses on biophilia (using living organisms in education, inspired by E.O. Wilson) and heutagogy (self-determined learning). His projects include developing classroom aquaponics systems (Ioponics), funded by the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council (2021-2023), now implemented in 76 Iowa counties, 17 states, and four countries. He emphasizes constructivist approaches, metacognition, and academic retention in science education.
His awards highlight excellence in teaching and innovation, including multiple Chellevold Awards and recognition from the Seed Coalition. Bechtel teaches courses like Science of Water, Biology of Ordinary Things, and Secondary Content Methods, while supervising student teachers.
