蜜桃社区

Q&A with Vicente Talanquer

What would be your advice to educators who are working with colleagues going above and beyond, but are yet to nominate them for an 蜜桃社区 Education prize?

My advice would be simple: don鈥檛 wait. We often assume that exceptional work speaks for itself, but recognition does not always happen unless someone takes the time to nominate. If you know a colleague who is making a real impact through teaching, mentorship, or innovation in education, taking the step to nominate them is a powerful way to show that their efforts matter. Educational prizes not only honour individuals but also help raise the visibility of the work being done to support chemistry education across our communities.

How did you first become interested in chemistry or science?

I had excellent chemistry teachers in high school who inspired me not only to pursue a career in chemistry, but also to care deeply about how the subject is taught and learned.

Who or what has inspired you to have a role in education?

Throughout my education, I have been fortunate to learn from teachers who were not only skilled educators but who also openly shared their passion for thinking deeply about teaching and supporting student learning. Among them are influential figures like Jos茅 Antonio Chamizo and Andoni Garritz, who helped shape the field of chemistry education in Mexico and paved the way for many others.

What motivates you?

Every day, my interactions with students motivate me to better understand their challenges and to find more effective ways to help them not only learn chemistry but also succeed in their studies and reach their professional goals.

How have your students inspired you?

My students have inspired me in many ways, through both their challenges and their successes, their engagement and even their moments of disinterest. Over the years, I have learned that becoming a better teacher starts with paying close attention to how students think, what they say, and the emotions they express. Despite the structural challenges educators face every day, my students continually motivate me to grow, adapt and strive to do better.

What advice would you give to a young person considering a career in chemistry?

Seek out opportunities to engage with chemists in real-world settings, whether by joining a research lab as an assistant or pursuing an internship in the chemical industry. These experiences not only provide valuable insight into the work of chemists but also open the door to mentoring relationships that can support and guide their professional development.

How can good science education support solving global challenges?

High-quality and ambitious science education is essential for preparing both citizens and professionals to understand the global challenges we face, and to apply their knowledge and skills toward developing strategies and taking actions that lead to solutions benefiting us all.

Why is chemistry education important?

Many of the global challenges we face have chemical origins, and will likely require chemical solutions. This makes it essential for all citizens and professionals to have a basic understanding of core concepts and ways of thinking in chemistry. Achieving this, however, requires a chemistry education that is relevant, meaningful, and connected to the interests of students and the communities they are part of.

Finally for a bit of fun...What is your favourite element?

Carbon because of the central role it plays in creating such an amazing and diverse world.