Bill Tihen

Developer, Educator, Meditator and Nature Enthusiast.

I hold a Masters in Electrical Engineering (with a focus on Materials Science). I also have a ScrumMaster certification.

I have worked as a robotics designer, teacher, systems administrator and software engineer. My technical work has strongly influenced how I teach: Research and Agile practices have helped me develop a keen interest in the joy of exploring or ‘playful experiments.’ Agile presents the Plan, Do, Reflect, Adjust loop and I have found that ‘smallifying’ large tasks is an effective way to make progress with a large overwhelming project. In fact, taking little exploratory ‘bets’ / experiments to move forward, helps many people feel safe. When I realized these are also excellent learning methodologies, I realized in addition to content, I need to teach these skills too.

Over time I have also realized that one of the most important aspects of a classroom (or work environment) is that it is exciting, engaging and generally an uplifting environment. Or possibly an energy gifting experience. I have found the when students can choose their learning outcomes & goals (within the expectations of the class curriculum) the classroom can offer students these experiences too.